02.06.20
Cumbrian Coast line back on track
Trains have begun running on the Cumbrian Coast line again after three successive storms forced the railway to close earlier this year.
Northern services resumed yesterday (June 1st) after Network Rail completely replaced the railway bridge that was damaged beyond repair at Parton by Storms Ciara, Dennis and Jorge in March.
For the last 11 weeks the railway between Whitehaven and Workington has been closed so that the bridge could be made safe and reliable again.
While the line was closed, work on sea defences that were planned for later this year was brought forward to diminish future disruption to passengers and freight.
More than 360,000 tonnes of rock armour have been installed to defend the exposed section of costal railway and mean more reliable journeys in the future.
Later in June, the line between Millom and Sellafield will be closed for 9 days due to planned work to renew the track at Eskmeals, near Ravenglass for Eskdale station.
Route Director for Network Rail’s North West Route, Phil James, said: “The scale of the storm damage on the railway at Parton was significant, and I’m pleased that the Cumbrian Coast line is now available for essential passenger and freight services.
“Our teams have worked tremendously hard over the last 11 weeks to get the railway back up and running, and the upheaval that Covid-19 has caused in that time makes the focus and teamwork demonstrated by colleagues all the more impressive.”
Regional Director at Northern, Chris Jackson, said: “It’s great to be able to welcome our customers back onto trains along the whole of the Cumbrian Coast. Network Rail has done a fantastic job in not only repairing the damage, but also making improvements to the existing infrastructure.
“Our customers have already shown remarkable patience while the work was completed, but I ask them to please continue to be understanding as we work through the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
“Though our trains have returned, capacity on those trains is significantly reduced as we try to help people socially distance while travelling.
“Only essential journeys should be made by rail and I am asking everyone to consider if their journey is absolute necessary and, if not, please leave spaces for those who have to travel.”
Passengers are reminded by Network Rail that they should continue to follow Government guidelines around the use of public transport, and only travel if they have to.
Images & Video: Network Rail