Project Profile: Weddel Loop Double-Tracking Expansion, Germany

The Weddel Loop expansion is a critical infrastructure project designed to eliminate a significant single-track bottleneck on the Braunschweig-Wolfsburg railway corridor. This initiative involves comprehensive double-tracking, bridge reconstruction, and systems modernization to enhance network capacity, operational resilience, and punctuality for both passenger and freight services. The project directly supports Germany’s national strategy to promote a modal shift from road to rail transport.

Technical Specifications

The core of the Weddel Loop expansion is the double-tracking of the line between the Weddel junction and Fallersleben station, divided into southern (Weddel-Lehr) and northern (Lehr-Sulfeld) sections. Civil engineering works are extensive, featuring the construction of eight new bridge structures using prestressed or reinforced concrete beams. This includes two major railway overpasses crossing the Schunter and Sandbach waterways. While some existing bridge substructures were pre-designed for a second track, requiring only superstructure modifications, others necessitated complete demolition and adjacent reconstruction before being positioned into their final alignment.

Track and systems engineering involves significant upgrades to increase operational flexibility and safety. In Weddel, three switches are being replaced and a new switch installed to access the second track. A new transfer point in Lehr requires the installation of four new switches. The Schmiedekamp junction is also being rebuilt with new switch connections. The project integrates modern signaling technology and upgrades to the overhead line equipment to support the increased traffic and higher operational speeds. To mitigate environmental impact, extensive noise barriers are being erected along the route, and rolling stock is being equipped with “whisper brakes” to reduce noise pollution for nearby communities.

Key Takeaways

• Bottleneck Alleviation: The project directly resolves a critical single-track capacity constraint, unlocking potential for increased service frequency and heavier freight loads on the vital Braunschweig-Wolfsburg economic corridor.
• Resilience and Punctuality: By introducing a second track, the project creates essential operational redundancy. This significantly improves the line’s resilience to disruptions and incidents, leading to enhanced punctuality and network reliability.
• Strategic Modal Shift: Increasing the efficiency and capacity of this rail artery makes it a more attractive alternative to road transport, directly contributing to Germany’s national goals for decarbonization and sustainable logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the Weddel Loop expansion be finished?

The original completion target was December 2023. However, the project encountered delays from supply chain disruptions and unforeseen geotechnical challenges with a key bridge foundation. As of late 2025, construction is actively ongoing, with a revised completion schedule pending final assessment.

Who is building the Weddel Loop expansion?

The project is managed by Deutsche Bahn (DB) and is funded through a collaboration between the German Federal Government, the state of Lower Saxony, and the Braunschweig Regional Association. Key engineering and construction partners include Depenbrock for major civil works, Mull und Partner for soil management, and LPI Ingenieurgesellschaft for bridge planning and supervision.