Trans-Pennine wires going up

23 days of engineering completed around Clacton

NETWORK RAIL has completed 23 days of intensive works in the Clacton-on-Sea area to replace the Victorian signalling system with a modern, computer-based system. The signalling system replaces the old semaphores and signal boxes with the latest state-of-the-art electronics and also controls level crossings. Clacton signal box is due to be removed at the end of April when control passes to the new signal centre at Colchester.

During the 23-day works, from February 30 to March 14, Network Rail installed 500m of new track, 12 signals, 12 sets of points, 13 new overhead line equipment structures and more than 6,000m of new cables as part of the £37m investment. The new signalling system will complement Greater Anglia’s new fleet of Class 720 EMUs to deliver a better overall journey experience for passengers.

Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s Route Director for Anglia, said:

“The completion of works over the last 23 days is a significant achievement for everyone delivering the re-signalling and track renewals programme. Thank you to everyone, passengers and communities, who have helped and supported our teams to complete this work.”

(Chris Gee) Rapid progress is being made with erecting the overhead line supports between Colton Jn and Bolton Percy, south of York. As can be seen several supports are going up overnight. DB Cargo Class 60 60011 trundles along at the head of the 6D11 steel working on February 25.