Network Rail is carrying out significant track improvements from Monday 6 to Friday 10 January to enhance the reliability of future journeys. The vital upgrades will affect London trains and other services in the Sheffield area.
The track currently requires a large amount of maintenance because the rail dates to before 1976.
If this replacement work is not carried out, it would mean an indefinite speed restriction being imposed and journeys being affected over a much longer period.
The round-the-clock renewal project will refresh a 2.7km stretch of the route – heading south of Sheffield towards Chesterfield – with new rail, sleepers and ballast.
The work will provide the immediate benefit of smoother journeys and a reduction in noise disruption in the area. Longer term, it will avoid the need for a speed restriction or greater passenger disruption.
Jason Hamilton, route director for Network Rail, said: “I would like to thank passengers for their patience while we deliver these vital track upgrades.”
“This once-in-a-50-year intervention on a critical rail artery which sees hundreds of trains every day will bring better journeys across the North and to London.”
Philippa Cresswell, customer service director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused while these vital improvements take place between Monday 6 and Friday 10 January 2025.
“We urge all customers to plan ahead and check their journey details before setting off. Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated as we work towards a better, more efficient railway network for everyone.”
Image credit: Network Rail
