21.01.19
Network Rail set to start £13m upgrade work on Derbyshire railway
Network Rail are carrying out £13m renewal works on junctions, signalling systems, and passenger access on the Matlock branch line as part of a £200m project to improve the railway in Derbyshire.
Ambergate Junction, the point where Matlock branch line leaves the Midland Main Line, is being completely renewed and relocated 365 meters to the south.
As part of the renewal work, Network Rail is carrying out work to the signalling system and installing a new walkway in order to improve safety for engineers working on the track.
The £13m upgrade will mean trains will be able to travel through the area at higher speeds, but will mean no trains on the line for a large part of February, increasing average journey times by up to 30 minutes.
Network Rail, East Midlands Trains and Cross-Country say they are working closely to minimise disruption
Route managing director for Network Rail, Rob McIntosh, commented: “This work is a vital part of the Midland Main Line Upgrade and will allow trains to travel at higher speeds through this area. This is the second phase of the project, having carried out a vast amount during the hugely successful Derby Resignalling upgrade. However, the extent of the work means it needs to be done in two phases.
“We appreciate that changes to train services does cause disruption. We have worked closely with train operating colleagues to keep passengers moving and we thank them for their patience during this time.”
The work is part of the Midland Main Line Upgrade and follows on from the work which took place during the Derby Resignalling Project.