Historic moment in Blackpool to Preston rail electrification revolution

By The Newsroom
Published 5th Jan 2018, 11:40 BST
Updated 5th Jan 2018, 11:40 BST
A huge track-mounted Kirow crane in Blackpool helping with the alterations on the tracks to Blackpool North as electrification work continuesA huge track-mounted Kirow crane in Blackpool helping with the alterations on the tracks to Blackpool North as electrification work continues
A huge track-mounted Kirow crane in Blackpool helping with the alterations on the tracks to Blackpool North as electrification work continues
The upgrade to the rail link between Blackpool and Preston has passed a major milestone.

The stretch of track has been connected to the West Coast main line by overhead electric wires for the first time in its history.

Read More
Giant crane gets Blackpool on track for railway of the future

The feat was achieved over the festive period as workers were in action round the clock on Christmas Day and Boxing Day to install new wiring and electrical equipment.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It is part of a 19-week revolution to upgrade and electrify the line between Blackpool and Preston.

Rails bosses said work ramped up on November 11 and will continue into the spring to install the remaining overhead equipment, realigned tracks and a modern signalling system.

Noel Connolly, head of programme management for Network Rail, said: “Work to connect new overhead line equipment on the railway to Blackpool was successfully completed over the Christmas period during a planned two day closure on the West Coast main line.

“The upgrade of Blackpool’s railway forms a key part the Great North Rail Project and will help to transform train journeys for passengers in the North.