Network Rail's branch possession work in Cornwall and Devon Q4 2009

[whole diary]

[RailCornwall]

Engineers will begin on a ^2m programme of work next week, as part of Network Rail^s annual initiative to improve the branch lines in Devon and Cornwall.

The ongoing investments aim to bring passengers a smoother and more reliable train journeys in the area.

Work will first begin on the Newquay branch line, where engineers will be working round the clock on 5 ^ 9 October and 12 ^ 16 October.  Some of the major work include renewing more than a mile of track drainage system, replacing 700 yards of rail and strengthening the bridge between Roche and Bugle.

Chris Rayner, route director, Network Rail, said: ^This series of work will reduce the risk of infrastructure problems occurring on these branch lines, ultimately making trains more reliable. We have deliberately planned to carry out the improvement work during quieter travelling time to minimise any inconvenience caused to passengers. This work is vital if we are to improve the railway in the long-term.^

Once the work at Newquay is completed, engineers will move on to the following branch lines:

26 October ^ 30 October, Paignton branch line
- Major work include strengthening the bridge near Torquay, replacing 308 yards of rail and renewing 150 sleepers.

8 October ^ 14 October, Barnstaple branch line
- Major work include relaying 220 yards of track in the Eggsford area, renewing track points at Credition and strengthening the Gunstone bridge.

23 November ^ 27 November, Maritime branch line
- Major work include repair track drainage and ballast, renew sleepers and testing signal cables

6 December ^ 11 December, St Ives branch line
- Major work include repairing 88 yards of track drainage, renewing 2156 yards of rail and strengthening the railway bridge near Lelant.

Alternative services will be provided and details of these services will be available at stations.

Passengers are advised to always check journey details with the National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 before travelling. 

(NR^» (Network Rail - home page) Press Release)

[polymath]

Unfortunately the press release is incorrect as regards the Barnstaple line, the correct dates for the engineering works are 9th November to 13th November. Network Rail have been contacted and asked to re-issue the press release or send out a correction.

[Chris from Nailsea]

Thanks very much for that information, polymath - and a warm welcome to the Coffee Shop forum!

[TJ]

The Avocet^▸ (Branch line from Exeter to Exmouth) (Exmouth) line will also be shut beyond Topsham for four consequtive weekends (Sat & Suns) starting 31st Ocober. Buses will operate between Exmouth and Digby in view of the difficulty in turning buses at Topsham.

About two miles of jointed rail between Courtlands (south of Lympstone) and the buffer stops at Exmouth will be replaced by continuous rail.

TJ