Passengers travelling on the Derwent Valley Line between Derby and Matlock are being advised to plan their journeys carefully this November, as East Midlands Railway (EMR) introduces rail replacement buses during a major programme of infrastructure upgrades.
The nine-day engineering blockade will allow Network Rail to deliver a £3 million investment aimed at improving the reliability and resilience of one of the region’s most scenic and historic railway routes.
While the work is underway, rail replacement bus services will operate between Derby and Matlock. However, EMR has confirmed that its Intercity services running between Sheffield, Derby and London St Pancras will continue to operate as normal and will not be affected by the engineering works.
The project will see significant track renewals carried out at three locations along the line, including Matlock Bath, Cromford and an area near Whatstandwell station. In total, engineers will install 4.6km of new rail, replace 3,509 sleepers and lay around 6,400 tonnes of ballast.
The investment is designed to reduce future maintenance requirements, lower the risk of infrastructure-related delays and improve reliability for both passenger and freight services using the route.
Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director at East Midlands Railway, said:
“We’d like to thank our customers for their patience and understanding while this vital work takes place.”
“Customers can find details of rail replacement bus stop locations on our station webpages.
"As some stops are a distance from the station, we encourage anyone who needs extra support or is unable to use the walking route to get in touch with our dedicated Passenger Assist team, who will be happy to help.
“Clear signage will be in place to help customers find their way, but we recommend customers leave extra time to make their journeys."
EMR is encouraging customers to check journey details before travelling and allow additional time, particularly where connections with replacement bus services are required. Passengers needing assistance are also being urged to contact the operator’s Passenger Assist team in advance of travel.
The work forms part of Network Rail’s ongoing programme of renewals and enhancements across the East Midlands network, helping to ensure the long-term reliability and performance of the railway for communities, businesses and freight operators throughout the region.
Image credit: East Midlands Railway
