Failing headspans OLE - ECML South

[londonmidland]

Between Hadley Wood and New Barnet, I’ve noticed quite a few headspans which look to be leaning quite significantly towards the track.

This has been present for quite a few years now and I’m surprised Network Rail haven’t replaced the affected headspans with portals, like they are doing on the MML.

Are there any plans to replace the affected OLE in this area?

 

[zwk500]

Headspan to portal conversion was trialled first on the ECML, IIRC. The MML is probably getting priority as it's undergoing a power supply and OLE max speed upgrade at the same time. I'd expect the ECML to be looked at soon, especially with the ETCS upgrade coming in at some point as there may be some minor speed gains possible.

 

[bramling]

Between Hadley Wood and New Barnet, I’ve noticed quite a few headspans which look to be leaning quite significantly towards the track.

This has been present for quite a few years now and I’m surprised Network Rail haven’t replaced the affected headspans with portals, like they are doing on the MML.

Are there any plans to replace the affected OLE in this area?

There have been issues with the stability of the embankment on this section for many years.

 

[Brubulus]

Headspan to portal conversion was trialled first on the ECML, IIRC. The MML is probably getting priority as it's undergoing a power supply and OLE max speed upgrade at the same time. I'd expect the ECML to be looked at soon, especially with the ETCS upgrade coming in at some point as there may be some minor speed gains possible.

The main speed gain possible on ECML south from an OLE upgrade would be allowing the 387s to reach 110, which would improve pathing on the fasts marginally.

 

[59CosG95]

Remedial OLE works are at a design stage. Can't say much more than that at the moment though...