North Downs Line Engineering Works 01/02 - 16/02 2025

[Paul180]

https://www.networkrail.co.uk/runni...s/wessex/north-downs-line-signalling-upgrade/​

What work is taking place?​

We’ll be upgrading four level crossings on the line; Chilworth, Tangley, Brook and Burrows Lane. Our engineers will also be upgrading the signalling between Shalford and Gomshall.

All four crossings will have new signalling installed and will feedback to Guildford Area Signalling Centre.

Brook and Burrows Lane level crossings are being replace by state-of-the-art level crossing technology to make them safer for both trains and road users. The crossings will be fitted with radars that will scan the crossing before a train approaches, only lowering the barriers once all vehicles are clear.

Meanwhile Chilworth and Tangley level crossings will be fitted with CCTV systems and be monitored by a signaller, who will observe the crossings, lowering the barriers when safe to do so.

As part of these works, we will also be upgrading 16 signals along this stretch of railway. Newer equipment means faults are less likely to occur, providing more reliable services for passengers.

https://www.networkrail.co.uk/runni...a 16-day closure,renewal of 4 level crossings​

What work is taking place?​

During a 16-day closure in February 2025, we’ll be upgrading parts of the North Downs Line, which links Reading and Guildford with Redhill and Gatwick Airport.

Over the course of the 16 days, we’ll be:

• Continuing our work to modernise the signalling in the area, including the renewal of 4 level crossings
• Stabilising one of the cuttings (embankments) that border the railway in Gomshall
• Laying new wheel timbers on the railway bridge over the River Wey

Are they having to replace the sleepers on the bridge again as they only replaced the sleepers in November 2023.

I am also surprised that they are shutting the line for two weeks and will they also be shuting the line again in October to complete the project.

It is also not helpful on the GWR website they are giving different dates and say it is only shut for a week, has there been a change of plan?

I can see that the Network Rail dates have been put in to the public timetable.
https://www.gwr.com/travel-information/travel-updates/planned-engineering

Guildford to Redhill/Gatwick Airport – Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 February

 

[John Webb]

.....Are they having to replace the sleepers on the bridge again as they only replaced the sleepers in November 2023......

Could this be connected with the recent incident near Manchester concerning longitudinal timbers? See This RAIB Urgent Safety Notice for details.