Forming part of the iconic NYMR, the construction of the replacement Bridge 27 is the first in a series of scheduled repairs for the world-famous visitor attraction and its Yorkshire’s Magnificent Journey project.

Carrying the 180-year-old railway over the Eller Beck at Goathland Station, the 20-metre Bridge 27 is best recognised as the iconic track leading to Hogsmeade Station, where the young wizards embarked for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movie, The Philosopher’s Stone.

As part of a full turn-key package, Cleveland Bridge is working in close collaboration with NYMR, which, in addition to the design, fabrication and installation of the new 84-tonne single span structure, includes the dismantling of the old bridge, earthworks, and pre-casting of concrete elements as well as the in-situ casting of its new deck.

Chris Price, NYMR General Manager, said: “This investment in the future of our railway paves the way for future generations to enjoy our vibrant rail history.

Cleveland Bridge UK have been a pleasure to work with on this project and their intrinsic involvement builds on the trust and professional partnership that we can hope to continue for many years to come.”

Once fabricated, Cleveland Bridge engineers undertook a full trial assembly of Bridge 27 to ensure the final installation can be completed efficiently. This was particularly important in preparing engineers to operate in a small assembly area adjacent to the rail line, minimising any environmental impact on the North York Moors countryside.

Transportation of the components involved a procession of six loads via road from Cleveland Bridge’s factory to AV Dawson’s freight facility in Middlesbrough where they were transferred to rail, travelling to Goathland for the start of the installation programme in the coming weeks

The bridge replacement is part of the £10 million YMJ project, which aims to secure the long-term future of the popular railway. It will involve other much-needed infrastructure improvements to enable the line to continue running, including the replacement of two further bridges. The project also focuses on improving access to the railway by those with disabilities and young children, providing new opportunities for apprentices and new education and volunteering facilities. There will be more updates on these exciting initiates over the coming months as work progresses.

NYMR’s ambitious project has been made possible by grants from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Rural Payments Agency, the Local Enterprise Partnership and the generosity of supporters.

With a combination of donations and grants the Charity has raised over 90% of the funds to deliver its YMJ project. The heritage railway still needs to raise an additional £800k. For further information and to donate, visit here: Yorkshire’s Magnificent Journey project.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is an award-winning charitable trust that carries 300,000 unique passengers every year. It is Britain’s most popular heritage railway and is one of the best visitor attractions in the North East. nymr.co.uk/YMJ

The NYMR trust relies heavily on donations and the work of its many volunteers. The 180-year old railway needs to raise £800k by 2022 so its railway bridges and its 50-100-year-old vehicles can remain viable.

• The NYMR cares for operating and developing the railway it owns from Pickering to Grosmont.
• The heritage railway operates over Network Rail from Grosmont to Whitby.
• The charity provides a high quality, safe and authentic evocation of the steam age for the public.
• The NYMR is an Educational Charitable Trust. Providing education for all ages.
• The railway is a fully accredited museum.

Cleveland Bridge UK Ltd’s principal activity is the fabrication and erection of steel bridges, high-rise buildings and other steel structures. The company has more than 150 years’ experience in delivering these structures around the world.

With the capacity to process 1000 tonnes of steel per week, the company operates a 22-acre site in Darlington, County Durham, which features a 27,000 square metre fabrication facility and a paint facility design for the application of high-specification paint systems.

The Cleveland Bridge Group, part of the Al Rashaid Group, is a market leading international engineering organisation with sites strategically located in the UK, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, China and India. Specialising in bridges, complex steel structures, design and construction services, together it has in excess of 1000 employees and a capacity of more than 150,000 tonnes per annum. clevelandbridge.com

The National Lottery Heritage Fund: Using money raised by the National Lottery, we inspire, lead and resource the UK’s heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the future. heritagefund.org.uk.

Follow @HeritageFundUK on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #NationalLotteryHeritageFund

Pic Credit: Charlotte Graham