14.04.14
Sleaford rail upgrade complete
The latest phase of modernising the Great Northern Great Eastern (GNGE) line between Peterborough and Doncaster via Lincoln has been completed with new signals and level crossings installed at Sleaford.
According to Network Rail, passengers and road users in Metheringham will now be able to travel over four improved level crossings and 19 miles of new signalling after engineers completed the latest phase of modernisation work in just ten days.
Phil Verster, route managing director for Network Rail, explained: “The GNGE line is an important route for both freight and passenger trains.
“Demand for rail services continues to grow and the upgrade of this line is an important project to help meet that demand. During just ten days our engineers have installed modern signals which will help to allow for future increases in services as well as improving reliability.
“At the same time the level crossings at Scopwick, Rowston, Blankney and Sleaford North have been upgraded with the latest technology.”
Blankney level crossing now includes a new footpath to allow passengers to access the southbound platform at Metheringham station from the car park. This path replaces an outdated crossing in the station which has been removed.
The work on the four level crossings was the largest number so far achieved in a single operation. Two level crossings were also completely closed during this phase of the project at Beevors and Rowston, further improving safety.
The completion of this phase means that trains which are not calling at Sleaford are now able to bypass the town, reducing traffic and delays to level crossing users in the town centre.
(Image: Sleaford level crossing)
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