Network Rail is advising customers travelling between Cramlington and Morpeth on the East Coast Mainline to check their travel plans ahead of making a journey, as Plessey Viaduct is currently undergoing repair work and reduced services are in operation.
The repair work will be ongoing until early November and is taking place following the discovery of a damaged parapet during planned engineering work earlier in October, which led to reduced service levels since the 8th of October.
Normal service will resume following the viaduct's repair by specialist Network Rail engineers.
The work will see the parapet wall strengthened and rebuilt and will involve:
- The installation of precast concrete units to the structure
- Steel pinnings
- Installation of 200m of new track and ballast
The maintenance work will be carried out overnight in order to keep the impact to a minimum for passengers. It is expected that the work will be complete by Monday the 6th of November.
Changes to services due to the ongoing repair work will see changes to some services in the area as follows:
- Southbound trains will not call at Morpeth
- Rail replacement bus service will operate between Newcastle and Morpeth
- Customers who are travelling between Newcastle and Manors can use their tickets on the Tyne and Wear Metro between the two locations only.
Those travelling in the area are advised to check their travel plans ahead using National Rail Enquires or via the rail operator.
Paul Rutter, Route Director for Network Rail's East Coast route, said:
“We're really sorry to all passengers who have been impacted by the damaged parapet wall on Plessey Viaduct.”
“Our teams are working to rebuild the parapet and relay the track, which will allow a full service to resume once more. However, it is going to take us a number of weeks due to the nature of the location we are working at.”
“We are carrying out the repairs overnight to minimise service impact, and we're working closely with industry colleagues to get passengers where they need to be. However, we do understand the inconvenience this is having and we're really grateful for your patience.”
“We encourage passengers to continue to check before travelling via National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator.”
