The installation of the Palmersville Dairy Underpass in North Tyneside has almost been completed as construction of the Northumberland Line continues.
The installation of the new underpass which will allow pedestrians to cross underneath the new rail line was put into place over five day period, moving 2,500 cubic metres of material, with the three sections then moved into position with a Self-Propelled Modular Transporter.
Once the work was completed, the area was back-filled with the rail track re-laid on top.
The Northumberland Line aims to bring passenger services back to the currently freight-only line which were originally stopped as part of the Beeching cuts.
It will involve the construction of six new stations in Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth, Newsham, Seaton Delaval and Northumberland Park with the aim of providing a service that can get to Newcastle city centre in 35 minutes.
Huw Merriman, rail minister said: “With the help of funding from the Department for Transport’s Restoring your Railway scheme, this cutting-edge technology is allowing us to make great strides towards bringing a much-loved line back into passenger use. With round-the clock work underway, these key infrastructure developments are vital in ensuring a safe and seamless passengers experience, and the Government remains committed to restoring the Northumberland line.”
Alongside the continued construction works, Northern who are the proposed operator of the line confirmed that it will be building a new depot for staff at the northern terminus of the line in Ashington.
Construction is currently underway at the new station and platform and Northern confirmed that they will be recruiting for new conductors and staff later this year.
Kerry Peters, regional director at Northern said: “Bringing new rail services to the northeast as part of the Northumberland Line is really exciting and we’re honoured to be able to provide those services for all the communities based along the route.
“As well as improving connectivity within and beyond the region, our presence in Ashington will also bring more jobs and economic growth to the area.”
The first passenger services are expected to be running in 2024.
Photo Credit: Northumberland Line
Video Credit: Northumberland Line
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