Trains back on track

RAIL services are up and running in Lockerbie again after a week of signalling works. The Carlisle to Lockerbie line was closed for seven days in the first week of the year. During that time passengers arriving at Lockerbie Train Station were faced with a line of replacement buses. However, the £61 million modernisation project was completed on schedule, by Wednesday. Network Rail say the newer technology should make journeys on the West Coast Mainline more reliable. Christian Irwin OBE, Network Rail capital delivery director for the North West and Central region, said: “Today is the start of a new era for the way we signal freight and passenger trains through Carlisle and north into Scotland. “This major investment, using the latest technology, benefits both passengers and freight, getting people and goods to where they need to be more smoothly and reliably on this crucial section of railway.” Matt Kent, from Siemens Mobility UK&I, said: “This extensive signalling upgrade includes state-of-the-art digital trackside equipment, fully compatible with European Train Control System standards to enable future integration. “These enhancements will help future-proof the line, delivering enhanced reliability and efficiency.” Network Rail thanked passengers impacted by the New Year closure for their patience while the work was completed.