Network Rail increases Hope Valley Railway Upgrade work

Credit: Network Rail

Since May 2022, Network Rail engineers have been working around the clock on the rail line between Manchester and Sheffield to allow passenger trains to overtake slower freight trains along the line, as well work to improve signalling and providing several station upgrades.

In January and February 2023, several line closures will be required to allow the upgrade to continue,  including renewing track and railway underbridge work at Dore & Totley station and earthworks near West View Lane ahead of the installation of new track.

The first phase of the installation of a passing loop which will allow faster trains to overtake slower trains at Bamford is set to be completed, while at Hathersage engineers will be lifting in the new footbridge to replace the current foot crossing, offering a safer route across the line for walkers.

Work will take place around the clock to reduce the length of time a section of the Hope Valley line will be closed.

Hannah Lomas, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail, said: “This is an important period for the Hope Valley Railway Upgrade, as various major projects on the line continue at pace. I’d like to thank the communities of the Hope Valley for their patience and support as we continue to upgrade this important line, improving reliability, increasing line resilience, and removing historic bottlenecks allowing faster journeys.”