Vital infrastructure works at the Downpatrick and County Down Railway (DCDR) were recently completed with the help of the railway systems contractor Babcock International Group.

Over three days, Babcock’s rail engineering team upgraded a private farm level crossing, also known as a User Worked Crossing, and repaired a track junction to extend its life.

The private farm level crossing used to have a stone pathway across the line, and was upgraded by replacing the old stones with modern rubber level crossing panels that Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail had generously donated.

At the track junction, the ‘frog nose’, the part where rails intersect at the centre of the junction, had suffered wear from repeated train movements. This needed welding to restore the turnout to as-new condition, which Babcock’s team completed in two days.

Farm crossings may be simple in appearance, but they are one of the most important features on a heritage railway. By ensuring these crossings are safe, visible, and reliable, the railway demonstrates its commitment to being a good neighbour and a responsible operator.

Robert Gardiner, chairman of the Downpatrick and County Down Railway, commented that the professionalism and enthusiasm that Babcock brought to the project had extremely impressed the railway. They approached the job with genuine respect for the infrastructure they were working on, and it was a great example of industry and volunteers working together. This kind of support takes the pressure off the railway’s small team of volunteers. The railway is still recovering from the impact of flooding in November 2024, and knowing it can call on skilled professionals when needed makes a real difference.

In August 2024, Babcock donated redundant sleepers from Belfast’s old Great Victoria Street station to the railway. On the UK mainland, the company has also been involved in complex heritage projects, such as an award-winning restoration of a listed turntable and critical track works at Ferryhill Railway Heritage Trust in County Durham.

The Downpatrick and County Down Railway was founded in the 1980s and is Ireland’s only full-size heritage railway. Operating on part of the former Belfast & County Down railway, run almost entirely by volunteers who preserve and operate vintage trains through the scenic County Down countryside.

“This project reflects our commitment to applying modern engineering expertise in ways that respect and reinforce the legacy of historic rail infrastructure. Just as importantly, our staff enjoyed the experience and the opportunity to share their skills for the benefit of DCDR. Collaborating with dedicated volunteers and heritage operators is a privilege, and we’re pleased to contribute to the safety, reliability, and longevity of these important community assets. We’re proud to support the Downpatrick and County Down Railway in preserving and enhancing Northern Ireland’s rich railway heritage.”

Steven Bell, Managing Director of Babcock’s Rail business, said: