Horwich Train Station

Horwich Train Station is a live operational rail station managed by Network Rail, serving daily commuters and public footfall. As critical public transport infrastructure, the station’s pedestrian bridge and access routes must remain safe, durable, and fully operational at all times.

The bridge deck, ramps, and stair access areas had begun to show signs of wear and surface deterioration. Given the constant heavy foot traffic and exposure to the British weather, a long-term commercial waterproofing and anti-slip solution was required to ensure structural protection and public safety.

Network Rail required a full refurbishment of the pedestrian bridge deck and access ramps, including:

  • Installation of a robust PMMA resin roof waterproofing system
  • Enhanced anti-slip surfacing suitable for heavy public footfall
  • GRP installation to steps and landing areas
  • Surface preparation, priming, and aggregate broadcast wearing course
  • Delivery within strict rail access windows
  • Minimal disruption to live passenger services.

All works also had to comply with Network Rail safety protocols and be completed predominantly out-of-hours.

ACS Coatings deployed a specialist resin and GRP installation team of 6–8 operatives per shift, supported by dedicated supervision and logistics coordination.

Our works included:

PMMA Resin Waterproofing System

We installed a high-performance PMMA resin waterproofing system across the bridge deck and access ramps. This involved full surface preparation, priming, waterproofing membrane application, and wearing course installation.

PMMA systems were used as they are ideal for transport infrastructure due to rapid curing times and excellent durability.

GRP Installation to Steps & Landings

To further improve safety, we also installed GRP anti-slip systems on steps and landing areas. This delivered a durable, impact-resistant surface suitable for constant public footfall.

Resin & Aggregate Broadcast System

A full resin and aggregate broadcast system was applied to create enhanced anti-slip performance across pedestrian areas. This guaranteed compliance with safety standards while improving long-term resilience.

Working within a live transport hub presented several operational challenges.

To minimise disruption to passengers and services, the majority of works were completed during night shifts within strict rail possession windows. Temporary lighting was also installed to maintain safe working conditions. In addition, temperature monitoring resulted in consistent resin curing performance.

All materials and deliveries were carefully coordinated to align with Network Rail access protocols. At the end of every shift, the team carried out a full clean-down, leaving the site safe and presentable for morning commuters.

Despite approximately two weeks of adverse weather, proactive reprogramming and close liaison with the client ensured the overall programme remained on track.

The bridge deck, ramps, steps, and landing areas were fully transformed.

The new PMMA and GRP systems now provide:

  • Long-term commercial waterproofing protection
  • Durable anti-slip surfaces
  • Improved aesthetic presentation
  • Infrastructure fit for heavy daily footfall
  • A refreshed, modern appearance.

The client was extremely pleased with the finish quality and the team’s ability to deliver on schedule under challenging conditions.

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