Two new reports presented to Moray Councillors have given further information on the partial collapse of Garmouth Viaduct.
A high-level engineering investigation has found that the collapse is most likely linked to a failure within the pier support, foundation or column support system, rather than the wrought iron structure itself. The report found there is currently insufficient evidence to suggest the collapse was caused by scour, metal fatigue or corrosion of the superstructure. Further investigations will take place once the collapsed sections have been removed from the river and it is safe to access the failed column.
A separate economic appraisal highlights the significant value the viaduct provides to the local area. Of the 695 people who responded to a community survey, 94% said the viaduct is important to their household, business or organisation, while 60% said its reinstatement is essential for the area to thrive. The report also found that 83% of respondents have reduced their walking or cycling since the closure and 64% reported a negative impact on their wellbeing or sense of community connection.
The appraisal estimates the annual economic, health and travel benefits of reinstating the viaduct could be worth between £114,000 and £296,000, although the cost of repair or replacement is not yet known and further work is needed to develop a full business case.
The council shared an update last week that confirmed the project to remove the collapsed sections was initially procured in two stages through an existing council framework. The first stage involved developing a removal methodology and estimating the cost of the work. However, once this assessment was completed, the estimated cost exceeded the framework’s allowable limit. As a result, the second stage, the physical removal of the collapsed sections, was procured through a full competitive tender process open to suitably qualified contractors.
Four contractors submitted bids, with the contract awarded to TMS Ltd, an experienced marine and civil engineering contractor with expertise in both land and water-based works.
Initial meetings with the contractor are scheduled to take place this month, and further details, including timescales for the removal works, will be shared in the coming weeks
Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said: “These reports provide important information as we continue to assess the future of Garmouth Viaduct. While further investigation work is needed to fully understand the cause of the collapse, the engineering report gives us a clearer picture of what may have happened.
“The economic appraisal also demonstrates just how important the viaduct is to local residents, visitors and businesses. It highlights the impact the closure has had on people’s wellbeing, active travel opportunities and connections within the community.
“We remain committed to gathering the evidence needed to inform future decisions and will continue to keep the community updated as this, and other work, progresses.”