Historic railway bridge makes a comeback

A historic railway crossing is being brought back to life in County Durham, more than 120 years after the original structure was removed.

Durham County Council has begun installing a new bridge over the River Gaunless at West Auckland, recreating a landmark designed by the ‘Father of Railways’ George Stephenson.

The original Gaunless Bridge formed part of the Stockton and Darlington Railway and is considered the world’s first iron bridge built for the modern railway.

Removed in 1901, its surviving ironwork is now displayed at Locomotion in Shildon.

The replacement structure is being lifted into position in two sections using a 650-tonne crane before being welded together.

Members of the public joined representatives from Historic England and Friends of the Stockton and Darlington Railway to watch the installation.

Work will continue over the next three months to create accessible paths at either end of the crossing.

Once complete, the bridge will provide the final link in the 12-mile Stockton and Darlington Railway Active Travel Route, which follows the original railway line from Witton Park to Darlington.

Councillor Tim McGuinness, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for rural, farming and transport, said: “We are delighted to be restoring a key part of County Durham’s history with the installation of the new Gaunless Bridge.

“Creating a new Gaunless Bridge has been a large and challenging project and this marks an exciting milestone for everyone involved.

“Once complete, people will be able to explore the original line and reconnect with our county’s incredible railway heritage.”

Created to mark the railway’s bicentenary, the walking and cycling route celebrates the region’s pioneering railway heritage.

The bridge project recently won the Collaboration Award at the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation North East & Cumbria Awards, recognising the partnership behind its delivery.

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