The West Somerset Railway have been carrying out extensive track work in 2017 with more work planned throughout this year.
The track works benefit our passengers and locomotives immensely, and are vital for the smooth operations of our services.
The railway are initially focussing on the Dunster side of the crossing. Removing the old track and strengthening the foundations ready for the new track to be laid. The Railway will be renewing the panels connecting the road and the track over the crossing in March 2018. This will result in a temporary road closure between 6th – 10th March.
The council have recently announced that they have approved the expenditure for the complete renewal of the level crossing, which is planned to take place in the winter of 2018. This will be completed with road users’ safety at the forefront of our objectives. The crossing was originally put in place 30 years ago and the equipment has been wearing over time. With the increase in traffic in the area, combined with the barriers being in frequent use, it is important to renew all elements to ensure reliable and safe usage.
The General Manager Paul Conibeare says:
“The renewal of the track at Minehead has been needed for some time, and we are very pleased to be completing this element of our infrastructure plan before we start running our daily services. The renewal of the level crossing which will happen later on in the year will benefit both road users and our passengers, both of whom are of paramount importance to us. We will endeavour to keep the local community and followers of the railway up to date on this project.”
For more information on planning a visit to the Railway with your group please www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/
