Consider the Clyde Viaduct near Dalmarnock. This is not just any bridge. It is a testament to Glasgow’s industrial past and its continued commitment to rail transport. We are standing before the 2nd Dalmarnock Railway Bridge. It is a structure with a fascinating story etched into its very ironwork.
This bridge, also known as the Dalmarnock Eastern Railway Bridge, was completed around 1897. The Clyde Viaduct saw some widening in 1923. It stands as a vital link carrying services between Glasgow and Lanark. Also Larkhall and Motherwell rely on it.
Engineers built the first railway bridge at Dalmarnock around 1858. This was followed by the second bridge between 1893 and 1897. This 2nd Dalmarnock Railway Bridge was commissioned for the Caledonian Railway. Both iron bridges were designed to carry two tracks each. The first bridge featured three bowed lattice girder spans on cast-iron piers.
The original Dalmarnock bridge played a crucial role on the Glasgow Central to Bridgeton line. It served Rutherglen suburban line of the former Caledonian Railway. The bridge spanned the River Clyde. Here, the river marks the boundary between the Glasgow and Rutherglen parishes.
In recent years, the Clyde Viaduct near Dalmarnock has undergone significant refurbishment. A £4.7 million project was completed to ensure its longevity. The work included installing a new track and waterproofing system. Steel strengthening and repairs were also carried out. The entire structure was repainted. This project aimed to extend the bridge’s lifespan for at least another 25 years.
During the refurbishment, engineers renewed approximately 300 meters of track. They installed 1100 square meters of waterproofing. Grit blasting removed old paint and rust. More than 10 tonnes of new steelwork were added to the bridge deck. New parapets strengthen the structure too. Over 12000 hours of work went into the project. Around 225 tonnes of grit and over 5000 liters of paint were used. Story Contracting delivered the project on behalf of Network Rail.
The original Dalmarnock bridge, constructed between 1859 and 1861, was a wrought-iron, twin-track structure. It comprised three tied-arch river spans of 70 feet and four land spans. Each one had a length of 50 ft. The main girders had bowstring construction. They measured 7 feet 712 inches deep at the centre. The bridge crossed the river at a skew of 618 degrees 30 minutes. George Graham was the engineer. The bridge’s piers used concrete-filled cast-iron cylinders. These were sunk to a depth of 14–22 feet below low-water level. Each pier featured three 512 ft diameter cylinders. Five braced together at each abutment.
As we stand here, consider the generations who have crossed this 2nd Dalmarnock Railway Bridge. Think of the goods transported. Think of the connections forged. This viaduct is more than just steel and iron. It is a symbol of Glasgow’s enduring spirit and its vital role in Scotland’s railway network.