Advanced access techniques on grade 2 structure

How advanced access techniques are minimising disruption on critical restoration of grade 2 structure

I’m always keen to keep up to date with innovative infrastructure maintenance projects, and the recent Stockport Viaduct restoration by Networkrail caught my eye as a brilliant example of rope access in action.

I’ve pulled out the key points of the project which I think you’ll agree really shine a light on impressive benefits of the rope access solution:

Project quick facts:

Historic structure from 1840
Carries 400 trains daily across M60 motorway
£1.1 million restoration project
11 million bricks across 26 arches

Why rope access made the difference:

Pinpoint access to tricky structural elements
Minimal disruption with strategic night-time work
Precise assessment without massive scaffolding
Comprehensive visual inspection

Challenges overcome:

Targeted vegetation management
Surface restoration and graffiti removal
Detailed check of 185-year-old masonry
Maintaining continuous rail network performance

Strategic wins:

Shorter project timeline
Dramatically reduced operational interruption
Cost-effective approach
Enhanced safety through specialised techniques

Well done to the team at Network Rail for their work on this project; it demonstrates why rope access is a game-changing solution for complex infrastructure maintenance.

Facing complex engineering challenges? Sutro Group offers tailored access and inspection solutions across Rope Access, Robotics, and UAV technologies. Our expert team develops precision solutions to minimise disruption and maximise efficiency.

Sutro Group – Enhancing safety and maximising efficiency through innovative solutions.