28.07.20
Network Rail continue work to secure street next to West Coast main line
Multi-million-pound work to secure land next to the West Coast main line in Stoke-on-Trent begins its second phase next month to make freight and passengers more reliable.
The £4m Railway Upgrade Plan investment will stop a suburban street from gradually edging into a railway cutting threatening the safety of the railway below.
Last year, emergency repairs had to be carried out by Network Rial engineers to West Parade in Mount Pleasant after cracks had appeared on the road surface.
Steel rods are to be put in place, known as soil nails, by drilling into the railway bank to protect the land from further movement.
During the weekends of 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27 September, some trains will be diverted and replacement buses will be in operation between:
- Stafford – Stoke-on-Trent - Macclesfield
- Stoke-on-Trent – Macclesfield – Stockport
Emma Gray, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: “We’re looking forward to going back to West Parade in Stoke-on-Trent to finish off the important work to secure the road for residents and also protect the West Coast main line for passengers.
“While we’ve planned the Railway Upgrade Plan work to keep trains running and passengers moving as much as possible, the work does require some road and railway closures. I’d urge passengers to check National Rail Enquiries before they travel, and I’d like to thank passengers and residents for their patience in advance.”
Gus Dunster, executive director of operations at Avanti West Coast, said: “As Network Rail deliver the next phase of their Railway Upgrade Plan, there will be alterations to our weekend services to and from Stoke-on-Trent.
“We are working closely with Network Rail as they carry out these vital works on the West Coast main line to minimise the impact to journeys during this time and strongly recommend you make a reservation, plan your journey in advance and check before you travel.”
Images: Network Rail