A major milestone has been hit as the line between Kettering and Wigston has successfully been electrified, allowing for greener and quieter journeys along the Midland Main Line in the future.
On behalf of Network Rail, Story Contracting played a key part in the project. The Story team were responsible for changes to six structures along the route, to allow for the energisation:
- SPC3/2 Bassetts
- SPC3/3 Taylors
- SPC3/9 Wistow Road
- SPC3/10 Glenn Station
- SPC3/28 Chaters
- SPC3/34 Three Arch Bridge
Four of the bridges were raised/reconstructed while two were demolished, to make room for the new overhead wires.
The wires will power new bi-mode (diesel and electric) trains through the area in the future, resulting in quieter journeys for passengers and residents living near the railway.
Network Rail is electrifying the railway as part of the multi-million-pound Midland Main Line upgrade.
Electrifying the Midland Main Line will help reach Network Rail’s net zero carbon emissions target by 2050.
Chris Morgan-Jones, senior project engineer for Network Rail’s East Midlands route said: “Electrifying the line between Kettering and Wigston is a major milestone in the wider Midland Main Line project, allowing for more greener and quieter journeys for passengers travelling through the area.
“Safety is Network Rail’s top priority, and while this is a huge moment for the project, we want to remind residents of the potential risks of overhead power lines. These wires carry 25,000 volts of electricity and make trespassing on the railway even more dangerous.”
Tim Legg, Head of Operations for Story Contracting said: “The Network Rail and Story Contracting team have worked extremely hard to reach this important stage in the Midland Main Line Electrification programme and I am extremely proud of what they have achieved.
“The works delivered are essential in supporting the Government’s ambitions for decarbonisation and Network Rail’s aims to deliver a greener, more reliable railway to connect passengers right the way between London and Sheffield, via Nottingham and Derby.”
