Redditch double tracking (update)

[ji459]

Following on from the earlier thread the partial re-doubling of the Redditch branch line has been given development consent (planning permission and various other consents). The Network Rail website hasn't been updated yet, so I don't know when the works are expected to start.

In summary, the works involve:

• Construction of a new 3.2km railway track running alongside the existing Redditch branch line between Alvechurch and Weights Lane to the north of Redditch (the new "loop") with realignment of the existing single railway track

• A new platform at Alvechurch station and a new footbridge with lift towers to accommodate a passenger lift

• Work to the existing embankments and cuttings and construction of retaining walls to accommodate the new track

• A new permanent highway access route from Weights Lane for maintenance of the new railway

• Alterations to the overhead line electrification including the construction of single track and twin track cantilevers along the length of the loop and four OLE portals at Alvechurch station

• A number of new signals to control train movements on the loop and two new re-locatable equipment buildings to house signalling and telecommunications equipment

The Secretary of State's letter announcing the consent is here and the actual development consent is here

The inspector's report is here and more details are on the National Infrastructure Planning website

Here is a thumbnail of a plan showing the details (click on it to enlarge, but beware that the plan itself is quite large)

 

[LNW-GW Joint]

Following on from the earlier thread the partial re-doubling of the Redditch branch line has been given development consent (planning permission and various other consents). The Network Rail website hasn't been updated yet, so I don't know when the works are expected to start.

Starting December 2013 if the Inspector's Report is to be believed.
So a 138-page report to double a simple 2-mile route through a rural area.
And this is using the new streamlined planning process!
How big will the equivalent HS2 report be, I wonder.

It's amazing how many people/bodies are opposed to an improvement of a 2tph service to 4tph.
Wheel squeal at Barnt Green seems a big issue.
Pages of argument devoted to the height of lift towers and OHLE masts.
Passing reference to Human Rights!
Network Rail must have to be very patient to get through the process, but at least they can now get on with it.

 

[The Planner]

Only goes to 3tph and it is just enough to provide it. As soon as the Cross City goes belly up expect to see these caped back at Longbridge.