Track and signalling

21.06.18

‘Major milestone’ in Northamptonshire railway upgrade reached

Network Rail has completed 12 weeks of major improvement works in Northamptonshire.

The work, which forms part of the Midland Main Line upgrade, saw two of four rail lines closed to all engineers to carry out major improvements to track, drainage, bridges and viaducts in the county.

Four kilometres of new track was installed by 57 engineering trains, and over half a kilometre of track was renewed, while over 300 tonnes of ballast were laid.

Irchester and Wellingborough viaducts and Sharnbrook Tunnel were strengthened and repaired, and Bedford’s Halsey Road bridge was demolished and reconstructed in order to support the increased traffic that will use the additional and existing lines in the future.

Ed Akers, principal programme sponsor at Network Rail, said: “Whilst this major milestone has been reached, we are still continuing with work in the county as part of the Midland Main line upgrade.

“This work will see three bridges reconstructed to allow electrified wires to be positioned safely beneath them, and we look forward to passengers seeing the benefit once this work is completed.”

Work continues on the Midland Main Line upgrade in Northamptonshire, with Bush bridge, Finedon Road bridge and Station Road bridge in Wellingborough still being reconstructed.

Top image: Network Rail

 

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