The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway (KWVR) has successfully completed its largest-ever infrastructure project: the replacement of Bridge 27 in Haworth. This £1.25 million engineering feat has been accomplished on time, ensuring the line’s reopening between Haworth and Oxenhope as scheduled.
The culmination of years of preparation
Spanning Bridgehouse Beck, a tributary of the River Worth, the original Bridge 27 was built in 1889. Due to its deteriorating condition, its renewal became a priority for KWVR, with preparations dating back over a decade. According to James Barlow, KWVR’s Chief Civil Engineer, planning for the bridge’s replacement began around 2015, with detailed designs from Cass Hayward in 2019 and contractor Beaver Bridges coming on board in July 2023.
The final work saw a massive 450-tonne crane carefully place a new bridge deck on September 14, bringing the project to its climax. Barlow praised the teamwork involved, noting the significant contribution of volunteers:
“To deliver this scale of work with volunteers, supported by industry specialists, is a credit to the KWVR and its voluntary workforce.”
Government support key to funding
The project was made possible thanks to £1 million in funding from the Community Ownership Fund, a government initiative part of the Levelling Up programme. This fund allowed KWVR to undertake this vital infrastructure renewal without compromising other areas of operation.
Replacing the bridge was essential for maintaining the safety and longevity of the line, which dates back to the mid-19th century. Barlow explained that the railway had been monitoring the bridge’s condition for over ten years, and without this renewal, continued operation would have been jeopardised.
Community and environmental considerations
KWVR’s close collaboration with local authorities and environmental agencies was crucial in ensuring the project’s smooth execution. Over the last two years, KWVR worked with the Environment Agency to minimise the impact of construction on the river and surrounding environment.
Specialist contractor Keller installed reinforced concrete piles behind the original bridge structure in May, with volunteers restoring the rails to allow KWVR’s summer services to continue running. Following the end of the summer schedule on September 1, the railway’s volunteer team removed the old bridge to make way for the new structure.
The final lift: logistics and community support
One of the most logistically challenging aspects of the project was installing the new bridge deck. A 450-tonne Ainscough Crane, positioned in the car park of neighbouring Wyedean Weaving, was used for the lift. Barlow noted that securing the necessary approvals and space for the crane was a complex process involving close coordination with Bradford Council over an 18-month period.
Despite the technical challenges, the actual lift took just 45 minutes and was watched by hundreds of local residents from Bridgehouse Lane. Barlow expressed gratitude for the community’s patience and support during the project, particularly the cooperation of Wyedean Weaving, who provided uninterrupted site access.
A historic moment for KWVR
As the railway resumes its full line services from Keighley to Oxenhope, this project marks a significant achievement for KWVR’s volunteers and contractors. The new bridge will ensure the continued safe operation of this cherished heritage line, which runs through the scenic Brontë Countryside and iconic stations featured in films like The Railway Children.
The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, a registered charity, continues to be supported by over 500 volunteers, demonstrating the community’s dedication to preserving this historic line.
