New drone footage has showcased the scale of engineering work completed during the first weekend of a major track renewal programme at Guide Bridge, near Manchester, as Network Rail continues its £700,000 investment to improve reliability on routes into the Peak District.
The project involves the renewal of a key section of railway infrastructure that connects the Glossop line with Denton, an important junction for both passenger and freight services operating across Greater Manchester.
During a 54-hour closure on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August, engineering teams removed ageing track, installed new ballast foundations, and lifted new track panels into position. The work formed the first phase of two consecutive weekend possessions affecting services between Manchester Piccadilly, Glossop, Hadfield and Rose Hill Marple.
The drone footage, released today, highlights the scale and complexity of the upgrade, with engineers working around the clock to ensure the railway reopened on schedule this morning.
Both passenger and freight services resumed as planned, but a second 54-hour closure will be required next weekend to complete the project.
On Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August, engineers will undertake rail welding works to create a smoother, continuous track alignment. Specialist tamping machines will also be used to compact and stabilise the new ballast, improving long-term track performance and ride quality.
Haider Saeed, Network Rail project manager, said:
“We’ve made great progress with our essential upgrades at Guide Bridge this weekend and worked around the clock to get the railway reopened today.
“I’d like to thank local people for their patience and support as we appreciate that this is noisy work. I’d also like to thank passengers whose journeys have been impacted. We’ll be back to finish the job next weekend, and I’d advise people to please plan ahead by using National Rail Enquiries and to allow extra time to make their journeys.”
The investment forms part of ongoing efforts by Network Rail to maintain and modernise critical railway infrastructure across the North West, helping to deliver a safer, more reliable network for passengers and freight operators.
Passengers travelling on affected routes over the second weekend of engineering work are being advised to check before they travel and allow additional time for their journeys.
Image & Video credits: Network Rail
