Story Contracting, working with marine specialist contractor GPS Macs, are undertaking scour protection works on the historic Leven Viaduct on behalf of Network Rail.

Tasked with futureproofing the viaduct, which carries the Carnforth to Barrow section of the Furness railway over the River Leven estuary, they will conduct general concrete repairs.

They will also replace sections of the concrete apron with grout mattresses and install precast concrete collars around some of the damaged pier caissons.

During construction in 1848, a causeway was built along the alignment of the viaduct, and it is here, at the remains of that causeway, where the Story and GPS Macs team will now work.

The historic Leven Viaduct is receiving futureproofingThe historic Leven Viaduct is receiving futureproofing (Image: Story Contracting)

Challenges brought on by working in an estuary include dangerous tidal conditions, where they have low tide working windows of approximately three hours.

The logistics of the site and the constraints have led to an 'innovative approach'.

They plan to use a modular pontoon system as material barges and various vessels, including a landing craft for welfare and transporting machinery.