A £1m project to restore Stockport Viaduct to its former glory is set to finish in March, with the M60 closing for 13 nights.

Network Rail started work at the grade II-listed structure last year, which involved removing overgrowing vegetation, cleaning graffiti, and carrying out repairs to the viaduct's 11 million bricks.

23 of the viaduct's 26 arches have been repaired so far, but engineers plan to abseil down the 550-metre long, 34-metre tall structure to finish the job.

This will take place from February 17 until March 2, when the M60 will close between J27 and J1 in both directions with overnight closures between 10pm and 6am.

Network Rail said diversion routes are being planned while the work takes place and signs will direct drivers during this time.

Built in 1840, the viaduct carries nearly 400 trains every day between the West Coast Main Line and Manchester Piccadilly.

But at the end of 2023 fears were shared over the condition of the building.

(Image - Alasdair Perry)

A Network Rail planning application submitted to Stockport council revealed that damage at the viaduct 'may affect its load bearing capacity' if not treated, due to 'multiple defects' across the structure.

It also warned that crumbling brickwork, known as spalling, could 'present a safety risk to people and property below.'

Cllr Grace Baynham, Stockport council's parks, highways and transport lead, welcomed the improvements to the town's "iconic" and "much loved" landmark.

"With the £1billion regeneration of our town centre continuing apace, it's even more important that our historical, listed, landmarks look their absolute best," she added.

"I'm sure our residents and visitors have seen the improvement in the areas that have already been completed.

"We appreciate everyone's patience while this vital final section of the work is completed."

(Image - Alasdair Perry)

Stockport MP Navendu Mishra said: "I am delighted that Stockport Viaduct is being cleaned and repaired to its former glory. I have raised concerns in Parliament about the condition of the Viaduct and called for funding to cover cleaning, maintenance and repair costs to this impressive and essential infrastructure.

"I congratulate Network Rail for recognising and embarking on this huge revamp project, which will benefit people who live, work and travel through Stockport."

Network Rail's principal route engineer for the North West route, Rob Stephens, said the work will help to secure the viadcut's future and reduce the risk of further damage.

He added: "Stockport Viaduct is an important piece of cultural heritage for the railway and the Stockport community.

"The final stage of the project will take place this February, as we want to make sure the nighttime road closure causes as little inconvenience as possible for the people of Stockport.

"The recent work means the overall appearance of the viaduct is much improved, but it also reduces the risk of damage caused by overgrown vegetation and graffiti.

"Managing plant growth on viaducts such as this is important in maintaining train performance as trees and shrubs can obscure signals and interfere with the overhead lines that power trains."

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