12.10.18
£15m Network Rail freight upgrade between Doncaster and Lincolnshire kicks off
Work to upgrade the route between Doncaster and northern Lincolnshire has begun as Network Rail invests more than £15m in rail freight in the region.
Network Rail has partnered with Humber LEP and North Lincolnshire Council on the project, which will allow high cube shipping containers to run between Doncaster and Immingham/Killinghome on standard height wagons.
Rob McIntosh, route managing director for Network Rail, explained: “Rail freight is vital to our economy. It contributes £870m to the economy and plays a big role in reducing congestion and carbon emissions.
“The northern Lincolnshire ports are an essential part of the freight network and this improved route will allow onward distribution from Doncaster to Scotland, the Midlands and beyond. This in turn will support the growth of local businesses at the ports and in the distribution network as well as preventing the need for goods to be transported on the road network.”
Currently high cube containers can be run on Immingham to Doncaster route, but this requires special low wagons which are more expensive to run and maintain.
The project involves 29 ‘interventions,’ including platform and trackside changes as well as work on three road bridges.
It has been allocated £7.2m from the Humber LEP’s Local Growth Fund programme, subject to government approval. The region was awarded this funding due to its growth deals with government and its role in the Northern Powerhouse.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “These much-needed enhancements to the rail network throughout North Lincolnshire will open up further business opportunities for the area by reducing the limitations on freight being brought to and from our ports. These works are critical to enhancing the port infrastructure on the south Humber bank.
“This significant investment from the council, Network Rail and the Government through the Humber LEP, shows commitment to securing the future of our area and will boost the local economy by opening up more opportunities and creating jobs in North Lincolnshire.”
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