Bennerley Viaduct

Bennerley Viaduct

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The wide valley to the east of Ilkeston is still straddled by the striking Bennerley Viaduct. Built in 18 months by the Great Northern Railway, its 15 wrought iron trestles carried the Derby Friargate line for 484 yards, at a height of up to 61 feet.

After closure, Bennerley’s fabric ensured its survival. Wrought iron must be dismantled rivet-by-rivet – a reality which proved prohibitively expensive. The British Rail Property Board carried out repairs to the viaduct in 1994-5.

Although its eastern approach embankment has gone, the structure itself is protected by a Grade II* listing and is under the management of Sustrans. Despite this, Bennerley warrants an entry on the Buildings at Risk register – one of five disused viaducts to feature.

January 2010