Network Rail is undertaking urgent repair work on the rail route between Sheffield and Manchester Piccadilly.
Due to a landslip in New Mills, the route will be closed for a month to address complex drainage issues.
Emergency Repairs Underway
Network Rail has announced that the key rail route between Sheffield and Manchester Piccadilly will be closed for a month. This closure comes as emergency repairs are needed due to a recent landslip at Hague Bar, New Mills. Engineers have been working tirelessly since April to stabilise the earth supporting the railway.
Complex Drainage Issues
Initially, it was estimated that the repairs would be completed by August. However, during the course of the work, engineers discovered more complex drainage issues that necessitated the construction of five state-of-the-art drainage chambers under the railway. These chambers are designed to collect excess water and direct it to the River Goyt, ensuring that the railway is more resilient to climate change.
Extended Closure and Service Changes
Due to the complexity of the additional work, the closure has been extended until September 23. To facilitate these urgent repairs, there will be changes to services in the area.
A bus replacement service will be in operation between Marple and Chinley station to minimise disruption. This measure aims to ensure that the repairs are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
On weekdays and Saturdays, there will be an hourly train service between Manchester Piccadilly and Marple, complemented by a bus service between Marple and Chinley. On Sundays, an hourly bus service will run between Manchester Piccadilly, Bredbury, Marple, and Chinley. Services between Chinley and Manchester Piccadilly will be diverted via Hazel Grove and Stockport, with a bus service between Chinley and Marple.
Local Community Engagement
Network Rail is actively engaging with the local community to keep them informed about the ongoing work. A meeting has been scheduled for residents on Thursday, August 29, from 7-9pm at New Mills Town Hall. The meeting will be held in the lecture room, with access via Hall Road.
The aim of the meeting is to provide an update on the progress of the repairs and to address any concerns or questions residents may have. Network Rail’s scheme project manager, Vitesh Solanki, expressed appreciation for the community’s patience and support during this period.
Solanki stated, “I’m sorry for the disruption the rail closure will cause passengers. We have received a tremendous welcome from the community in New Mills and we are grateful for your patience while we carry out this important work.”
Advice for Passengers
Network Rail is advising passengers to check National Rail enquiries for travel advice in August and September for services between Manchester Piccadilly and Sheffield.
Network Rail is also working closely with train operator Northern to minimise disruption to passengers. A spokesperson for Northern thanked customers for their patience and assured them that efforts are being made to ensure passengers can still reach their destinations, although they should allow more time for their journeys.
Future Implications
The construction of the new drainage chambers is a significant part of improving the railway’s resilience against future climatic conditions. These chambers are expected to last for 120 years, providing a long-term solution to the drainage issues discovered during the repair work.
This project underscores the importance of proactive infrastructure maintenance and the need for ongoing investment to ensure the reliability and safety of the rail network.
Passengers and residents in the affected areas are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of the repairs and any further updates from Network Rail.
Final Remarks
Passengers are advised to check the latest travel information on the National Rail website before planning their journeys.
Network Rail and Northern continue to collaborate closely to reduce the impact of the closure and ensure a smooth transition back to regular services once the repairs are complete.
The emergency repair work on the Sheffield to Manchester rail route highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure to prevent future issues.
Passengers and the local community have been urged to remain patient and stay updated on the repairs to minimise inconvenience.