Network Rail Undertakes 32-Day Upgrade: Track, Signaling & OLE Improvements

Network Rail is undertaking a significant 32-day engineering programme across the Christmas and New Year period, impacting services between Christmas Day and Sunday 25 January. The extensive works involve the deployment of substantial engineering resources, including 45 engineering trains and 879 rail wagons, to deliver crucial upgrades to signalling, track infrastructure, and overhead line equipment in the Church Fenton area.

Major upgrades to signalling and telecommunications infrastructure are central to this 32-day initiative, with plans to install, test, and commission a total of 70 new signals and associated components. To facilitate these installations, eight level crossings will temporarily close, with the majority being replaced by more secure alternative crossing methods. The remodelling of tracks in the Church Fenton area is also a key component, alongside the re-alignment of platforms 3 and 4. A new passing loop will be constructed to allow direct services to overtake stopping services, which will contribute to an anticipated increase in line speed and reduced journey times in the future.

Operational Details and Technical Enhancements

The engineering effort will also see the renewal of three kilometres of track and eight sets of switches and crossings, critical components for safe and efficient train movement. Furthermore, the installation of overhead line equipment (OLE) will continue, paving the way for the introduction of “greener, electrified services.” This comprehensive upgrade strategy aims to enhance the reliability and capacity of the rail network in the region.

Strategic Impact and Industry Context

Adam Sellers, TRU Senior Sponsor, highlighted the strategic timing of the works, noting that the period between Christmas Day and 25 January is traditionally the quietest for rail passengers, thereby minimising disruption. He emphasised that these improvements are pivotal to the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) plans and represent a significant step towards enhanced rail travel across the region. Chris Nutton, Major Projects & TRU Director at TransPennine Express, echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the TRU programme has already achieved notable progress, including the electrification of the line between York and Church Fenton. He acknowledged that TransPennine Express services between Leeds, York, and Selby will experience impacts, with diversionary routes and rail replacement buses implemented to mitigate disruption. The dynamic nature of the works necessitates constant vigilance from passengers, who are strongly advised to plan their journeys by checking nationalrail.co.uk or their train operator’s website.

This extensive engineering programme underscores the industry’s commitment to modernising critical infrastructure to meet future demand for faster, more reliable, and greener rail services. For rail operators and infrastructure managers, such large-scale renewals are essential for maintaining asset integrity, improving performance, and ultimately enhancing the passenger experience. The investment in electrification and track improvements positions the region for increased capacity and improved connectivity, aligning with broader governmental and industry decarbonisation targets.