Major progress is being made on the Hope Valley Railway Upgrade as Network Rail [JD1] have set the foundations for the new passing track loop between Bamford and Hathersage stations have been confirmed.
The Hope Valley upgrade is a targeted programme of works aimed at removing several bottlenecks on the line, including the railway loop, signalling improvements and platform extensions.
The team of engineers have completed soil nailing, regrading work at Bamford and clearing the land and adjoining rock face which involved drilling nails into the embankment and stabilising the ground in advance of the track installation which will begin later this year.
Graeme Whitehead, senior sponsor on the Hope Valley Railway Upgrade said:
“We’re very pleased with the progress of work that the team have made at Bamford, despite challenging ground conditions”.
“Reaching this milestone means that we’re one step closer to completing the passing loop and delivering benefits to passengers travelling along the Hope Valley line.”
The first phase of track installation on the loop was completed in Bamford late last year, with two turnout sections of the track on the loop put into place. The turnout sections will eventually meet in the middle, completing a passing loop for fast trains to pass.
Alongside the continuing works on the loop, construction on the second platform is underway at Dore and Totley station, with the foundations of the platform extension and footings for the pedestrian bridge put in place.
Work across the Hope Valley Upgrade is due to be completed in spring 2024.
Photo Credit: Network Rail
Video Credit: Network Rail
