Cumberland Council is set to begin the next phase of essential maintenance works on Durranhill Viaduct in Carlisle, helping to protect and extend the life of one of the city's key transport links.
Work is due to start on Monday 28 September 2026 and will see improvements carried out on the section of the viaduct that crosses the Settle-Carlisle and Carlisle-Newcastle railway lines.
The viaduct carries Eastern Way (C1045), an important route linking Warwick Road (A69) and London Road (A6), and forms a key part of Carlisle's highway network.
Following a competitive procurement process through the Council's Capital Works Framework, Metcalfe Plant Hire Ltd has been appointed to deliver the scheme.
The works will include:
- Replacing bridge expansion joints
- Installing new waterproofing systems
- Resurfacing sections of the carriageway and footway
- Removing vegetation growth and carrying out localised repairs to masonry parapets
The project forms part of Cumberland Council's ongoing investment in maintaining and improving the condition of its bridges, helping to ensure they remain safe, reliable and resilient for years to come.
Work is expected to take place over two phases. Construction will begin on 28 September and continue for approximately 10 weeks before taking a planned break over the Christmas and New Year period, in line with the council’s seasonal roadworks programme. The contractor will return on 4 January 2027 to complete the remaining works, with overall completion anticipated in February 2027, subject to weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.
To allow the works to be carried out safely, temporary traffic management measures will be in place throughout the project. These will include:
- Two-way temporary traffic signals
- Footway closures where required
- At least one footway remaining open at all times
- Safe crossing points for pedestrians
Public information events
Residents, businesses and road users are invited to attend one of two drop-in information events to learn more about the scheme, planned traffic management arrangements and the measures being taken to minimise disruption.
Tuesday 8 September 2026
4pm to 6pm
Harraby Community Centre
Edgehill Road, Carlisle, CA1 3SN
Thursday 10 September 2026
4pm to 6pm
Botcherby Community Centre
Victoria Road, Carlisle, CA1 2UE
Cumberland Council would like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and cooperation while these essential works are carried out.
For further information, please visit the Cumberland Council website or contact the Highways Hotline on 0300 373 3736, quoting "Durranhill Viaduct Remedial Works (Phase 2)".
