05.01.18
Electrification means Blackpool and Preston railway connected to WCML for first time
Electrification between Blackpool and Preston over Christmas means the railway between the two areas has an overhead wire connection with the West Coast Main Line for the first time ever.
Part of the Great North Rail Project and linked with the 19-week upgrade programme currently underway in Blackpool, the completion of this work is a step towards introducing more electrical services in the north west.
The new wiring was installed by engineers over Christmas and Boxing Day, and further upgrades in Blackpool will include track realignment, further overhead line equipment and the installation of a modern signalling system.
Noel Connolly, head of programme management for Network Rail, commented: “The upgrade of Blackpool’s railway forms a key part the Great North Rail Project and will help to transform train journeys for passengers in the north.
“I’d like to thank passengers and local residents for their patience while we continue to carry these vital improvements.”
Sharon Keith, regional director for Northern, added: “It’s great to see the work progressing between Preston and Blackpool as the rail industry works in partnership to improve and modernise the railway for customers.
“The work being carried out by Network Rail will pave the way for our brand-new and refurbished trains to serve our customers in West Lancashire, providing modern, state-of-the-art rail travel with improved reliability.”
Included in the Blackpool upgrades, Network Rail will carry out key work on track and platforms at Blackpool North and Kirkham & Wesham stations and will also be installing 84 new modern signals to improve the reliability of journeys.
Images: Network Rail
Have you got a story to tell? Would you like to become an RTM columnist? If so, click here.