Network Rail will be carrying out essential work in the area to replace the track and ballast.
The work is a key part of their South East Upgrade record investment of £1.25bn to upgrade track, signalling, structures, earthworks, stations and depots in South East London and Kent to give passengers better journeys with fewer delays.
Network Rail's principal contractor Colas Rail will be replacing the track, drainage and ballast to improve the quality of the track in our area and remove any wet beds where water collects in the ballast.
The works will be carried out as follows:
- Preparation works: These will include the setup of a work site which can include the use of small plant and machinery.
- Main works: This will involve removing the old track with excavators and engineering trains, excavating the track bed, and then replacing the rail and ballast using a special track laying machine and tamping.
- Tamping: A tamper is an engineering train that is used to vibrate and pack the ballast under the rail sleepers to ensure the track sits in the correct position.
- Follow up works: This will include welding, the use of small plant and pneumatic machinery to ensure the new track has settled in and safe for passenger running.
During these works, there will be some noisy equipment, lights, and generators on site. Network Rail appreciate the affect their activities may have, and have assured me that their teams are briefed on working responsibly within the community. They will only operate machinery when required and will endeavour to keep any noise to an absolute minimum, though some disturbance may be unavoidable due to the nature of the work.
If you are planning to travel during this time, your journey may be impacted. Please check before you travel.
If you have any additional questions, please contact Network Rail's 24-hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41 quoting Ore Tunnel Track Renewal.