Network Rail has released a short video showing the work completed on the branch line which runs between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town stations.
The cab ride shows one of the first trains running on the new tracks which were replaced in seven days earlier this month.
The branch line is just under a mile long and is the shortest branch line in the country and probably the shortest in Europe.
The line was originally built in 1879 to move goods and people between the canal basin and the mainline at Stourbridge Junction.
While the track renewal work was taking place, some of the components connecting the rails to the sleepers were found to date back to 1905.
Two Class 139 Parry People Movers operate the shuttle service on the line, one of the only places in the world. Used due to the gradient on the line, they are popular with many people.
Dave Penney, Network Rail's Central route director, said: “This speedy upgrade of the Stourbridge Town branch line shows how the rail industry is coming together to get West Midlands routes in the best possible shape for passengers when they return once coronavirus travel restrictions are eased.”
“This is all part of our commitment to build back better as the region emerges from the pandemic. Of course, for the moment, we ask passengers to only use the railway for essential travel.”
Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director for West Midlands Railway, said: “This important work will ensure a smoother journey for our customers on this popular route and follows hot on the heels of recent upgrades we have made to the trains on the line.”
“With the railway currently reserved for essential journeys only and fewer people travelling, it is a good time to complete this project. We thank customers for their patience while this important work has taken place.”
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One of the drivers on this line once told me that it is the most boring train driving job in the world. Backwards and forwards on a 5 minute journey
We need more Parry Movers built…
The Class 139 People Parry Mover are still the most reliable trains on the Stourbridge branch line.
Very nice but how about reopening the whole line up north between Walsall and Lichfield. I live in Brownhills and would really love the line to be reinstated.