Rail passengers travelling to and from Buxton are being advised to plan ahead later this month as Network Rail carries out a major track renewal project inside one of the line's most historic structures.
The infrastructure operator is investing £1.5 million to replace track through the 163-year-old Eaves Tunnel on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September. The work forms part of ongoing efforts to improve reliability and passenger comfort on the route serving both commuters and visitors travelling into the Peak District.
Engineers will renew the railway track and replace ballast, the foundation stone that supports the railway, throughout the 400-metre-long tunnel located between Chapel-en-le-Frith and Dove Holes.
Once completed, the upgrades are expected to deliver smoother journeys and enhance the long-term resilience of the line.
To enable the work to take place safely, no train services will operate between New Mills Newtown and Buxton throughout the weekend. Rail replacement buses will be in operation to keep passengers moving while the engineering work is carried out.
Andrew Mulholland, programme manager for Network Rail, said:
“We’re closing the railway between New Mills Newtown and Buxton to upgrade the tracks inside Eaves Tunnel, so we can offer a smoother journey onboard train services.
“I’d like to thank passengers for their patience while this vital work takes place. Please check your journeys in advance with National Rail Enquiries or Northern, so you know exactly what to expect when travelling on 26 & 27 September.”
Northern is urging customers to check travel arrangements before setting out and allow extra time for their journeys.
Stuart Taylor, Northern’s director of service delivery for Greater Manchester, said:
“We know this is an important route for our customers and are pleased that work will be done to deliver smoother and more reliable journeys for years to come.
“There will be no trains between New Mills Newtown and Buxton while the engineering work is being carried out, but we will be running rail replacement services to keep people moving.
“Customers should check before they travel and allow extra time for journeys.”
The project is being delivered on behalf of Network Rail by the Central Rail Systems Alliance.
Image credit: iStock
