THERE are fears that the historic Troy rail viaduct is falling down and a danger to the public, with MP David Davies stepping into the debate about its future.

The Monmouth MP says he is worried about the future of an historic piece of town architecture whose owners so far cannot be traced.

He arranged a site meeting with the British Rail Residuary Board, Monmouthshire County Council and local farmer Mr Graham Long, over whose land the bridge runs.

Built in 1861, the viaduct remained operational until 1959 when passenger services ended. It subsequently fell into disuse and was sold by British Rail for a nominal sum to a private company called Monumental Trust, which was also given a grant of £87,000 for maintenance work and repairs.

However, the company and its principal have not responded to enquiries.

"This is a very unusual situation," said Mr Davies. "The viaduct is falling down causing safety issues for local people and a huge problem for Mr Long who is unable to farm part of his land. Yet BRB Residuary does not accept liability, saying that the viaduct is the problem of the new owners.

 "I have not been able to contact the legal owners despite my best efforts. It seems possible they are no longer trading and I believe the owner is living abroad. They were given a grant to ensure the viaduct was maintained, but clearly at present it isn't.

 "British Rail's responsibilities are now managed by BRB Residuary and if the legal owners cannot be found and won't uphold their obligations, then I hope BRB Residuary will do the decent thing and take back ownership of the viaduct.

 "Arguably the viaduct should not have been sold off in the first place without assurances.

 "I'm grateful to officers of Monmouthshire County Council and BRB Residuary for attending the meeting. The sight of the viaduct as you come down the hill from Trellech towards Monmouth is fantastic and it would be a sad day for the town if it completely collapses or is demolished. I want to work with all interested parties to ensure it remains safe and secure for the future."