Bransty tunnel track renewal

Renewing the track in Bransty tunnel to ensure the reliability of train services on the Cumbrian coastline

Project timeline

After recent assessments and testing, we’ve uncovered some areas under the railway which need strengthening before any work can progress. We’ve therefore had to close the tunnel to all trains until further notice, and any work planned is currently paused.

We are also carrying out some additional ground investigations in two locations in Whitehaven to aid our understanding of the ground conditions around Bransty tunnel. To do this, we are drilling boreholes in two locations in Whitehaven. This work will take place between the hours of 9am and 5pm from Monday 22 September until Friday 3 October in the Michael Street area. We are doing everything we can to keep disruption to a minimum and have installed sound barriers to reduce the impact to residents.

What work is taking place?

Bransty tunnel is a key part of the route on the Cumbrian Coast line between Whitehaven and Carlisle. The tunnel is one kilometre long and flooding sometimes affects services. Recently the tunnel has been flooded with historic mine water which has further degraded the tracks so it is very important that we carry out this work.

When our investigations are complete, the following work will take place:

To ensure the track and drainage is fit for the future, we are replacing the whole section of track in the tunnel. During this time the tunnel will be closed and there will be rail replacement bus services in place.

The work to replace the track and drainage is separate to any work that is planned to improve the ocherous appearance of the water in the marina. We continue to work with partners such as the Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, the Environment Agency and the Mining Remediation Authority as part of the Whitehaven Task Force.

You can find more information about the orange water in the harbour and the work of the Whitehaven Task Force below.

When is the work taking place?

The most recent survey data is now being processed so plans for the extra work needed to strengthen the tunnel floor can be developed as soon as possible. This must be done before the track renewal can take place, and it’s likely that will happen later than expected.

The exact timeframes for how long these repairs and subsequent track improvements are still being worked through, and we’ll update this page with specific dates as soon as we know.

How will this work affect me?

Please check before you travel. Details of train services and rail replacement buses can be found on the Northern website.

Why is the work needed?

The work is needed due to ingress of iron ochre as well as ongoing flooding issues. To keep passengers and freight safely on the move, the track and drainage system needs to be fully replaced.

I have a question about the project – how can I get in touch?

Check back on this page for more information as the scheme develops.

The water in Whitehaven Harbour

The work to replace the track is separate to any work that is planned to improve the ocherous appearance of the water in the marina. We continue to work with partners such as the Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, the Environment Agency and the Mining Remediation Authority as part of the Whitehaven Task Force.

You can find more information about the orange water in the harbour and the work of the Whitehaven Task Force below.