The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Trust (GWRT) has announced the successful conclusion of its Stanway Viaduct Appeal.
26 January 2026: The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Trust (GWRT) has announced the successful conclusion of its Stanway Viaduct Appeal, following the completion of the new waterproof membrane, safeguarding the viaduct for the future.
Since 2023, the GWRT has been campaigning to save Stanway Viaduct after decades of water ingress posed an increasing risk to running trains over the 15-arch structure.
Thanks to the generosity of members, volunteers and donors from around the world, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway PLC were able to complete works replacing the waterproof membrane and deck during the winter of 2023/24, with the track being lifted as soon as the operating season had finished that November.
Following completion of the main works, activity on the viaduct paused to allow the structure to dry out, while fundraising continued to support the remaining repairs. A routine examination of the viaduct was carried out in late 2024, with a detailed report delivered and reviewed in 2025. This report clarified the extent of the essential outstanding work, and we are pleased to confirm that the funds raised through the appeal are sufficient to deliver these repairs.
With the primary objectives of the appeal now achieved, the Stanway Viaduct Appeal will formally close on 31 January. The Trust would like to thank everyone who contributed, supported and shared the appeal, helping to secure the future of one of the railway’s most significant structures.
