TENSOLOGY install new ropes on the historic Bridgnorth Cliff Railway.
The 132-year old, funicular, Bridgnorth Cliff Railway connects Low Town to High Town which are separated by 111 ft of sandstone cliffs. The Bridgnorth Cliff Railway consists of two cars operating on separate, parallel tracks on a 33.5° incline. These carriages work simultaneously, as one travels to the bottom station the other rises to the top, transporting local residents and visitors from far and wide. Originally, the carriages were powered by water which was used to counterbalance the two, however, this method was later changed to an electrically operated motor, whereby two haulage ropes are used to lift and lower the carriages along the 201 ft long track. In addition, there is a safety rope that connects both carriages together.
The rope change was planned in during a two-day closure with an emphasis on a safe and timely completion. The natural characteristics of this type of application provided challenging working conditions, this was epitomised by the gradient on which a major part of the work had to be carried out. The narrow concrete steps that separate the two tracks were used for access and egress from working positions and the restricted access to sheave wheels were all aspects that needed to be considered during the planning and execution of this work. The three old ropes were removed from the system and coiled on to empty reels for disposal and the three new ropes were safely installed and tensioned within the designated time. The work was carried out by an experienced, three man, Tensology installation team, we were given fantastic feedback from Bridgnorth Cliff Railway staff on the professionalism and expertise displayed saying - Just a quick thank you to Tensology and the three excellent operatives you sent out to replace the ropes on the Cliff Railway. Operatives arrived on time worked late very polite, good contentious lads an asset to your company.. We would recommend your company and operatives and will certainly contact you again for any related work we require.
The installation was even reported on in the local news :