Following the unexpected discovery of a failed mortar joint below both parapets of Stanway Viaduct, a repair solution has been identified and the work is now pressing ahead on the £1.5m-plus repair project

The 120-year-old structure is the outstanding architectural feature of the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR), between Toddington and Broadway.

The failed joints, which extend almost the full length of the 200m viaduct, are beneath both parapets well below track level.

Evidence suggests that it has been progressively developing over many years, implying an original design fault. The problem was exposed after all track materials had been removed in order to renew the failed waterproof deck; while both parapets are leaning slightly outwards.

Dr Graham Plant, GWSR civil engineering director, said: "We have pressed ahead to jet-wash and grout the failed joints. To ensure long-term stability the parapets will be secured by stainless steel wire ropes attached to the parapets and fixed to reinforcing mesh within the new concrete viaduct deck.

"The wire ropes can be adjusted to take account of construction tolerances in any future movement of the parapets.

"We and our consultants have burned the midnight oil exploring a range of options and this is the neatest and most cost-effective remedy. Importantly, it does not affect the heritage appearance of the 120-year-old viaduct and minimises delay in resuming train services to Broadway."

The work is being carried out by Walsh Construction of Worcester.

The additional cost amounts to approximately £270,000. As with phase 1 of the project, this is being funded by the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Trust (GWRT).

In a letter to supporters, GWRT chairman Philip Young explains: "The Trust has identified how it can fund the additional spend that is critical if work is to continue to ensure that our trains start running again to Broadway, as soon as possible. We are able to do this thanks to the support of all our members, donors and supporters.

"The current appeal remains open and needs to raise as much as possible over the coming months."