Network Rail has completed a £50m project to lower and replace tracks as part of the electrification of the Great Western main line.

The six-week scheme was the single biggest track renewals project ever undertaken by the company.

The project was delivered with Network Rails' S&C South Alliance partners, Colas Rail and URS, and Babcock.

Work involved lowering and replacing 10km of track in Bath and its surrounding area.

The team also installed 11 new switches and crossings, enabling trains to move from one track to another.


The new lower track has created additional headroom needed for the overhead lines that will power the new fleet of electric trains.

Overall, 98,000 tonnes of new ballast was laid, 23,000 new concrete sleepers were installed and 500 welds were completed.

Andy Haynes, Network Rail's project director for the west of England, said: "We always knew this was going to be a complex project given the historic architecture and infrastructure we were working around, but I'm pleased to say all work was completed on time.

"Now this preparation work has been carried out, we will be able to install the overhead line equipment that will be used to power the new electric trains. These trains will provide passengers with more seats and faster journeys, while significantly reducing noise and pollution for those who live close to the railway line."



(LM)