Media centre

Monday 1 Sep 2008

LINCOLN BACK ON THE RAILS

Region & Route:

The first trains will be running through Lincoln this morning following the completion of six weeks of intensive work on the line.

Over the past six weeks Network Rail invested £55m replacing 6,514 metres of track – the length of 66 football pitches – and completely renewing the signalling system through the centre of Lincoln. From today trains will be running at a faster line speed, on a state-of-the-art railway which is signalled from a brand new control centre.

Dyan Crowther, Route Director said;

“I would like to thank Lincoln’s residents, businesses and the university for their support throughout this work. Also a big thank you to East Midlands Trains for providing excellent replacement services throughout the closure. This project marked the first major investment in Lincoln’s railway for many years. We now have a 21st century network for Lincoln and the surrounding area, delivered on time and to budget. Network Rail’s investment will benefit passengers by allowing for a better rail service”

During the work, the old semaphore signalling system characterised by ‘arms’ on a signal gantry being raised or lowered to control the movement of trains was replaced by a cutting edge system using computer controlled coloured LEDs. At the same time, 22 sets of switches and crossings used to move trains from one track to another were renewed. The opportunity was also taken to renew High Street Level Crossing and to convert the level crossing to CCTV to bring it in line with the new signalling.

The railway that Network Rail reopened this morning provides Lincoln with an even safer, more reliable infrastructure that is easier to operate and maintain.