Repairs to storm-hit Blaenau line

NETWORK Rail engineers and mining specialists are working to repair a railway tunnel damaged in the recent storms.

The Conwy Valley line between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog is likely to be closed until mid-November as a result of the damage to the tunnel near Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Railway maintenance staff inspected the tunnel (main and inset) after ex-Hurricane Ophelia and Storm Brian and found a structural pillar inside was found to have suffered damage from the excessive rainfall which had caused more water than usual to enter the 140-year-old structure.

Engineers are undertaking detailed assessments and developing designs to repair the damage.

A team are on site preparing to start the demolition and reconstruction work to the pillar and surrounding rocks.

In addition there are other areas along the line that require repair works following the storms.

A Network Rail spokesperson said engineers are working to reopen the tunnel by midNovember.

She added: “Our engineers are currently repairing the damage caused to the Blaenau Ffestiniog tunnel during Hurricane Ophelia and Storm Brian. The Conwy Valley Line will remain closed whilst this urgent essential work takes place.

“We understand the railway is a vital link for local people, however safety is a key priority, and we are working hard to get the line reopened as soon as it is safe to do so.

“We are working closely with Arriva Trains Wales, to keep passengers moving during the closure of the line, and a rail replacement bus service will be in operation until it reopens.

“We will continue to keep passengers and the local community informed while this essential repair work is completed.”

Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid Cymru MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, said: “I am deeply concerned that the Conwy Valley railway line into Blaenau Ffestiniog has been closed to carry out emergency repairs in the tunnel.

“The railway link to the mainline and Llandudno is a lifeline for the town, and I am contacting Network Rail for an update as a matter of urgency.”