Darlington experts bridge the gap on historic renovation project
Darlington specialist repair experts, Stone Technical Services, have been asked to be part of a multi-million pound restoration project on a 200 year old bridge.
Stone has won the contract to complete a major refurbishment project on the Lune Aqueduct, near Lancaster, which dates back to the 1790s.
The Grade I listed structure carries the Lancaster Canal 664 feet across the River Lune at 61 feet above the ground. Stone will be restoring the historic masonry and brickwork on the bridge as part of a major renovation project which is being funded by a £1 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and money from British Waterways.
Stone is working alongside infrastructure specialists, May Gurney, on the project which is expected to last six weeks.
Family-run Stone are experts in the area of bridge repairs and refurbishments, completing a range of works such as concrete repairs, emergency making-safe repairs, upgrading and general maintenance and thermal imaging surveys.
Stone's team of skilled team of heritage masons, accredited to the highest industry standards by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme, carry out all of the bridge refurbishment works by hand.
So far in 2011, Stone has seen an increase in new contracts around the country and has opened premises in Cheadle Hulme near Stockport and near Piccadilly Circus in central London. The company also has offices in Pinner in Middlesex and its headquarters in Darlington.
Managing director, Dave Stone said: “The Lune Aqueduct is a real masterpiece and is often referred to as one of the ‘wonders of the waterways’. Due to its age it has fallen into disrepair so we’re working to preserve its historic features and also improving public access.
"Bridges are one of our growth areas as we have the industry-accredited craftsmen and the necessary public safety requirements readily available, working to install safety barriers and a specialist access systems, where required."
