Media centre

Thursday 5 Oct 2006

BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR RAIL USERS IN NEW BRIGHTON

Region & Route:

Passengers in New Brighton will benefit from smoother and quieter journeys in the New Year after Network Rail has completed track renewals in the area. Network Rail is spending almost £1 million replacing approximately 2,000 yards of track with continuously welded rail, which will end the familiar “clackety-clack” sound. Peter Strachan, Route Director said: “This is a massive investment in the Wirral area and forms part of the £72 million we have committed over the next two years to deliver a world class railway for Merseyside. The track renewal will pave the way for more reliable train services, helping Merseyrail Electrics remain one of the best performing train operators in the country. “This scheme will have long-term benefits for passengers and the industry alike. Passengers will notice a smoother, quieter ride as jointed track is replaced with continuous lengths of rail, there will be less wear and tear on the trains themselves and the new track will be less susceptible to defects and failures.” To cause minimal disruption to rail users, the majority of the work is being carried out over weekends between 6 October and early November, and will be finalised in the New Year. The line will be closed between New Brighton and Bidston East Junction from 23.00 each Friday and will re-open at 05.00 each Monday. Merseyrail will be operating a rail replacement service between Birkenhead North and New Brighton during these times. During the work:

• 3,724 yards of rail will be laid
• 2,610 sleepers will be replaced
• 5,586 tons of ballast will be replaced
• The work will be carried out over 1,400 man hours each weekend

Passengers are advised to contact National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 or go to www.nationalrail.co.uk for details of rail replacement services.