Ecofret 2s sent for store
A lack of space at Langwith Junction has meant that brand new FWA container flats are being taken off site while testing continues on the prototypes at the Derby RTC.
WITH the completion of FWA-C Ecofret 2 three-unit container flats for VTG Rail/GB Railfreight now well into double figures, and testing not yet complete on set No. 83 70 4520 198-0 + 83 70 4521 035-3 + 83 70 4520 199-8 at Derby RTC, this has created capacity issues at WH Davis's Langwith Junction site.
To ease the pressure on space, a pair of transfers took place during February that removed 16 sets (equivalent to 48 platforms). The first move took place on the 4th, when Cappagh blue-liveried No. 60028 was sent to Shirebrook to collect ‘outers' Nos. 83 70 4520 200-205/210217/222/223 and ‘inners' Nos. 83 70 4521 036-038/041-044/047, the train forming a 6Z08/12.30 to Gascoigne Wood, via a run-round at Toton Yard.
A DC Rail Class 60 was also tasked with the second delivery of 24 platforms, which occurred on February 15. No. 60046 ran to Shirebrook to collect FWA ‘outers' Nos. 83 70 4520 206-209/218221/224-231 and ‘inners' Nos. 83 70 4521 039/040/045/046/048-051, and the resulting formation worked to the storage site as a 6Z60/13.22 to Gascoinge Wood.
With WH Davis busy on Ecofret 2 construction and cutdown HHA modifications, the wagon builder and maintenance company has also been upgrading its Langwith Junction site.
Its new ‘Belfast' shop replaces an existing structure but includes a new rail connection, higher roof and new cranes that will allow wagons to be lifted, significantly expanding the company's capacity and capabilities.