Cutting edge tech used as rail scheme hits another milestone
16 Jun 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
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Cutting-edge technology is being used to create the last and largest underpass on the Northumberland Line.
The major five-day operation, which will vastly increase safety by replacing the current pedestrian crossing point, will involve closing the line which is currently used for freight for 100 hours while engineers work round the clock.
The cutting will divert the existing Public Right of Way through the underpass structure finishing by joining back into an existing underpass under the Metro lines.
A self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT) is one of the stars of this stage of the work. It’s a giant multi-wheeled trailer used for transporting massive objects, from large bridge sections to spacecraft and any other objects that are too big or heavy for trucks.
The current crossing will be dug out before the SPMT carries the 400-tonne concrete underpass sections into place. The line will then be re-laid on top.
During the operation some 2,500 cubic metres of material will be excavated before the three-part underpass is installed and backfilled with 1,750 cubic metres of earth.
Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “This is another great milestone for the scheme and the scale of the technology and equipment being used is really something to see.
“Day and night work is taking place to bring this fantastic line back into passenger use and these are key parts of the infrastructure to ensure it’s a smooth and safe experience for everyone.”
Rail Minister, Huw Merriman said: “With the help of funding from our Restoring your Railway scheme, this cutting-edge technology is allowing us to make great strides towards bringing a much-loved line back into passenger use.”
“With round-the-clock work underway, these key infrastructure developments are vital in ensuring a safe and seamless passengers experience, and the Government remains committed to restoring the Northumberland line.”
Tony Lloyd, Senior Project Manager with primary contractor Morgan Sindall Infrastructure said: “We're delighted to be working alongside Northumberland County Council and other partners to deliver these improvements to the Northumberland Line demonstrating our commitment to connecting people and places through innovative and responsible infrastructure.
“We’re also excited about continuing our work with local schools and the community as part of this project to create a lasting legacy.”
The underpass creation is the latest milestone on work to restore passenger services between Ashington and Newcastle from summer 2024.
The completed line will see brand new stations built at Ashington, Bedlington, Bebside, Blyth Newsham, Seaton Delaval and Northumberland Park, along with miles of track relaid and a host of new infrastructure
Once complete, passengers will enjoy a journey time between Newcastle and Ashington of just 35 minutes, with services operating regularly seven days a week, providing easy access to jobs, education and tourism opportunities.
Not only will the restoration of passenger services reconnect communities and improve connections, but it will also boost the region’s economy through improving access to jobs.
The line’s construction work alone has also created almost 100 high-skilled jobs and apprenticeships, demonstrating the benefits it’s already having on the local community.
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