Major change for historic Dartmoor viaduct as council takes control

Meldon Viaduct, the historic Victorian bridge near Okehampton, has been taken direct control of by Devon County Council, after the decision was made to close the company that has managed it for more than 25 years.

At a meeting earlier today (Wednesday 12 November), the Council’s Cabinet agreed to dissolve the Meldon Viaduct Company Limited, therefore meaning the structure’s management and funding will now come directly under the Council’s control.

The move marks a major change in how the Grade II listed viaduct will be maintained and protected for the future.

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Built in the 1870s by engineers Galbraith and Church for the London and South West Railway, the iron truss bridge now carries the Granite Way walking and cycling route, part of the National Cycle Network (Route 27).

The Meldon Viaduct Company was set up in 1998 to look after the bridge and attract grants for its upkeep. 

But in recent years, it has struggled to raise much money, an average of just £13,000 a year, and Devon County Council has continued to provide both funding and administrative support.

With major repairs estimated to cost between £2 million and £3 million over the next ten years, councillors decided the most efficient option was to bring the viaduct “in-house”.

Under the new plan, the lease of the viaduct will return to the Council, which will now take the lead in securing external funding from organisations such as the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England. 

ABOVE: The change comes after years of low funding and background support from the council (Credit: Rosser)

Funds currently held by the company will be ring-fenced to help pay for future maintenance.

Councillor Simon Clist, Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said: 

“Meldon Viaduct is one of Devon’s most important heritage assets and a vital part of the Granite Way.

“The route attracts thousands of walkers and cyclists each year, supporting local businesses and helping to cut carbon emissions.

“By bringing it in-house, we can unlock proper funding to make sure this unique bridge stands strong for future generations to enjoy.”

Legal work will now begin to dissolve the company, with the Council working alongside the Charity Commission to ensure the transfer of any remaining reserves.

A further report will go to Cabinet once funding options have been identified. 

In the meantime, survey work has already started to prepare for the extensive renovation needed to preserve the viaduct’s wrought iron lattice piers and trusses.