Working together Bridges the Gap

With the recent good news that the raising of the Liverpool bound platform at Irlam Station was going ahead, Network Rail approached Hamilton Davies Trust (HDT) as there was the potential for some negative impacts on the Bridging the Gap artwork, so loved and admired by many.

Specifications for the platform raising works meant that a fence had to be erected 3.5m back from the platform edge and along at least two thirds of the artwork, in effect blocking people from being able to see it and preventing access to maintain it.  Following discussions with Network Rail it was agreed that a wrought iron fence, similar to the one alongside Platform 9¾, eventually be erected. Being able to source this higher specification of fence will take a bit of time, so a temporary fence has gone up meanwhile. Tony Prescott, HDT Operations Manager said: “Being contacted by Network Rail in this way shows how well partners regard HDT through the relationships it has built up. We are extremely happy that we have been able to work with the project’s team and influence the type of fence going up so that everyone will still be able to see and enjoy the Bridging the Gap artwork created by the IC Art programme, artist Rachelle Cleary and many members of the local community.”

Before the temporary fence went up the HDT team and FIRST members, along with Rachelle, cleaned the artwork to remove the build up of several years of grime…..and what a difference it made!

As part of our work, HDT are fully aware of the importance of maintaining what we put out in the district. Our maintenance plan includes all items that have been installed since the Trust was first formed and includes things like: Bridge Lights, Christmas lights, Digital Information Board, Signal Box & Signals, railway exhibits, heritage boards and artefacts, as well as several large scale public art pieces and installations.

Despite being a small team, working with partners and volunteers means we are much more able to keep things in good condition and as eye catching and inviting as the day they were installed…..we thank all involved for their support!

Posted on: 20th December 2022