Story Contracting has completed the restoration of the Grade II listed Smardale Gill Viaduct, a historic landmark in Cumbria, on behalf of the Northern Viaduct Trust.

Urgent repairs were undertaken in 2023 to address water infiltration and prevent further structural damage. The second phase of repairs, completed in July 2024, fully restored the viaduct’s stonework, ensuring the long-term preservation of the structure.


The extensive restoration involved repairing or replacing 130 stones, re-pointing approximately 1,800m² of existing stonework, and applying 20m³ of lime grouting to fill voids. Despite the construction work, public access to the former railway viaduct—now a popular walking route—was maintained throughout the project.

The restoration was a collaborative effort, with specialist rope access work conducted by Geo-Structural Ltd. Story Contracting worked closely with the Trust’s advisors, Ramboll (project management and engineering) and Thornton-Firkin (quantity surveying). Flight Ecology also played a crucial role in ensuring the protection of local wildlife, as the viaduct is located within a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation.