Over the last 18 months, Network Rail has been inspecting railway bridges with softwood timbers and have identified four bridges at Manea, which is situated on the Ely and Peterborough line, that require maintenance work.
The latest technology that reveals the internal condition of the timbers has found that 115 are in need of replacement.
The work will bring a safer and more reliable service on the line, and has been planned carefully to take place over weekends when less disruption is likely.
During September and November 2020, 57 pairs of wheel timbers were replaced across the four bridges.
Network Rail will be returning during September and October 2021 to replace a further 29 pairs of wheel timbers which will prevent further deterioration and keep services running.
Work is set to commence on Saturday 11th September 2021 and is expected to be completed over 7 weekends.
Passengers are advised to check with their train operator, or with National Rail Enquiries to find out the options available for their travel plans.
Below are the affected days:
- Saturday 11 September
- Sunday 19 September
- Sunday 26 September
- Sunday 3 October
- Sunday 10 October
- Sunday 17 October
- Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 October
Ellie Burrows, Network Rail's route director for Anglia, said: “Running a safe railway is my absolute priority and this work is vital to running a safe and reliable railway network for our passengers.
“We can only carry out this work when trains aren't running and have planned this in at the weekend when fewer people travel.
“I advise passengers to check before they travel and thank everyone for their patience while the work takes place.”
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia managing director, said: “This track maintenance work will help to improve reliability along this key part of our network.
“A rail replacement bus service will operate while the work takes place, so customers will be able to complete their journeys. Passengers should check before they travel, allow more time for their journey and wear a face covering when travelling by train or rail replacement bus and at our stations.
“We have several measures in place to keep customers safe including regular cleaning and sanitisation of trains and stations, and high levels of face covering compliance.
“We would like to thank customers for their patience while this work takes place.”
Richard Morris, Regional Director East Midlands & Anglia, CrossCountry said: “We are pleased that Network Rail are carrying out this essential infrastructure upgrade work at times of the week when fewer of our customers will be travelling. We will work collaboratively with our rail industry partners to ensure alternative travel arrangements are put in place to minimise the inconvenience to passengers”.
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