A PLANNING application has been drawn up seeking permission to install a heritage plaque on the Sankey Viaduct commemorating its historical significance.

The 183-metre long structure in Newton-le-Willows, commonly known as the Nine Arches Bridge, is the first major crossing of its kind, built by George Stephenson between 1828 and 1830.

The bridge, built to let trains cross above the Sankey Canal, has international significance as the world’s earliest major railway viaduct still in use.

English Heritage named it as a Grade I listed building, the only structure in the borough to have been designated as such.

The application has been submitted for a National Transport Trust 'Red Wheel' heritage plaque to be installed on the structure.

It states: "The plaque will be mounted in a location which is visible from the footpath but at a safe distance from the public. There are no other buildings in the immediate vicinity.

"The plaque will be placed at a height and position which deters theft and vandalism".

The Red Wheel heritage plaque would be 500mm in diameter, weigh four kilograms and be made from cast aluminium.

The application adds: "The Red Wheel plaque award is designed to commemorate national transport assets of particular historical significance.

"Historic England listed the Sankey Valley Viaduct as a Grade I structure because it is the earliest major railway viaduct in the world overcoming natural barriers and business objections and being an integral part of the first inter-city railway route in the world.

"The plaque and associated public relations opportunities will draw attention to this significance and contribute to the town’s heritage strategy and local pride."

The application is on standard consultation to the public until Wednesday, August 18, with a determination deadline set for September 16.