Media centre

Wednesday 27 Jul 2005

MAJOR RENEWALS FOR MERSEYRAIL NETWORK

Region & Route:

A major renewals programme will be carried out on the Wirral line between Hamilton Square and Conway Park while the track is upgraded with continuously welded rail. Andrew Skidmore, General Manager (Liverpool) said: “This is a major investment for Merseyside and demonstrates Network Rail’s continued commitment to this busy line. This programme will have long term benefits for passengers.” The scheme, which is costing £2 million, is being funded by Network Rail and will affect passengers travelling between Birkenhead North and Hamilton Square. The blockade will take place from Sunday, August 7 until Wednesday, August 24. The project is being carried out ahead of the Open Golf Championships at Hoylake next summer to ensure the line is in tip-top condition for in the influx of visitors the area is expecting. Patrick Verwer, Managing Director of Merseyrail said: “Network Rail’s project is a clear case of “short term pain for long term gain”. It is inevitable that people’s journeys will be disrupted for this period but in the long run, it will help to make the service even more reliable and punctual”. A rail replacement bus service will be available between Birkenhead North and Hamilton Square for passengers using the West Kirby and New Brighton lines and this is being organised by Merseyrail. A full temporary timetable has been published which is available from Merseyrail stations and for download online at www.merseyrail.org. Services from Liverpool to Chester and Ellesmere Port will be unaffected.