WALKERS and cyclists have been given advance warning by a county council that a popular historic monument carrying the Granite Way will be closed for the majority of September.

Meldon Viaduct, near Okehampton, will be completely closed for around three weeks in September for resurfacing. There will be no alternative route for the duration of the works.

The 150-year-old viaduct, which is part of the Granite Way walking and cycling trail, is due to be closed from Monday, September 9, to Friday, September 27.

During the works, the existing anti-slip surface will be removed, and the timber deck will be inspected to ensure it is structurally safe, and where necessary it will be replaced. New anti-slip boards will then be installed on the full 165-metre span of the viaduct.

Throughout the duration of the scheme, temporary closure notices will be signed at key locations on the Granite Way, warning people they will not be able to access the viaduct. Unfortunately, there is no suitable diversion route during the closure.

Meldon Viaduct is a Scheduled Monument and one of only two surviving railway bridges in the UK constructed with wrought iron lattice piers supporting wrought iron trusses. It has been used by cyclists and pedestrians as part of the Granite Way since 1996.

The resurfacing work will be carried out by Midland Industrial Flooring Ltd on behalf of Devon County Council.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, cabinet member for highway management, said: “It’s essential the surface of the bridge is replaced so that this stunning viaduct can continue to be enjoyed by people. The closure is unavoidable, but contractors will try and complete the work as quickly as possible. It’s a shame there isn’t a suitable alternative off-road route for people to use during the closure so we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Councillor Lois Samuel, county councillor for Okehampton Rural, added: “The viaduct is extremely popular and is well used by many people every day, so we need to make sure that it remains safe. I am pleased that this work is being carried out to maintain it for future use.”