Network Rail has completed a £7.1 million programme of improvements on the railway between Newcastle and Scotland, with work delivered over the past three weekends.
The programme included drainage upgrades at Scremerston in Northumberland and the clearance of more than four miles of drainage systems along the route. The work is intended to reduce the risk of flooding and weather-related disruption.
Track and overhead line renewals
Network Rail also installed more than 3.2km of new track at Heaton North, Morpeth and Shortridge, and replaced or refurbished eight sets of points at Heaton North, Morpeth, Alnmouth and Tweedmouth.
A further 1.5km of overhead line equipment was renewed to support the reliability of electric train services. Vegetation management and safety inspections of track, points and structures were also carried out.
John Grainger, joint head of performance at Network Rail and LNER, said: “Much of the railway’s drainage lies out of sight, but it plays a vital role in keeping trains moving safely and reliably. By upgrading drainage at Scremerston and clearing more than four miles of systems along the East Coast Main Line, we’re reducing the risk of flooding and weather-related delays and preparing for the autumn and winter weather.
“The drainage work was delivered alongside major renewals to track, points and overhead line equipment, strengthening the resilience of this important route and helping to provide smoother, more reliable journeys for passengers and freight customers.
“We know this work meant changes to some journeys while it was carried out, and we’d like to thank passengers and residents for their patience and understanding while we completed these upgrades.”
The improvements form part of Network Rail’s ongoing investment in the East Coast Main Line, which connects north-east England with Scotland.