Media centre

Wednesday 27 Aug 2003

FINAL WORKS AT LEVEL CROSSINGS

Region & Route:

National

Level crossings in North Staffordshire are due to be closed again as Network Rail reaches the final stages of its major works in the Stoke and North Staffordshire area as it continues to rebuild the country’s railway. Starting on May 18th this year, engineers are now well on the way to completing the 19 week programme to renew the 50 mile stretch of railway between Colwich Junction and Cheadle Hulme, with handback well on target for the completion date of 27th September. Explained Network Rail’s West Coast Project Director James Martin: ‘We are currently running 75% completion, with the majority of the heavy works including track and structures complete. `The main task now is bringing the new railway back into operation, with rigorous testing of the new equipment to ensure it meets the high standards required. Indeed the majority of equipment installed is of the highest quality standards ever seen on the national rail network and will allow us to hand back a safer, faster and more reliable railway.’ Now to ensure successful completion, final improvement works will be carried out in the North Staffordshire area over the next two weeks, with closures at a number of the local crossings to completely renew the rail infrastructure at the crossings. Closures include: Barlaston                     00.01 Sunday 31st August – 23.59 Wednesday 3rd September 00.01  Monday 8th September – 23.59 Sunday 14th September Wedgwood                 00.01 Friday 29th August – 23.59 Monday 1st September Meaford                       00.01 Monday 1st September – 23.59 Wednesday 10th September Aston by Stone           00.01 Wednesday 27th August – 23.59 Saturday 30th August During these closures, full diversionary routes will be in place, with alternative bus arrangements and limited pedestrian access at some of the crossings. Barlaston residents will also be able to use the Wedgwood crossing during the majority of the works as a diversionary route, helping to minimise disruption. Added James Martin: ‘We fully appreciate the inconvenience that these closures may cause but it is absolutely essential that we complete these improvement works and would like to thank all concerned for their patience during these closures.’ Notes for Editors ·        During the works, the project will see 150,000 sleepers replaced on the North Staffs route ·        More than 300,000 tonnes of ballast will also be used ·        Most of the main work will be during daylight hours, with the engineers working to strict environmental guidelines