RAILTRACK is to ask train operators and the Strategic Rail Authority to consider allowing line closures to speed up the #5.8m west coast main line upgrade.
This follows the success of a partial blockade of the Euston approaches for the past 120 days to allow the #180m remodelling of the London terminus. A 19-day shutdown of Proof House junction south of Birmingham last month to facilitate modernisation of the approach to New Street station was equally successful.
Robin Gisby, Railtrack director responsible for the remodernisation, stressed the programme was on schedule although there were very real challenges to be faced.
One was having to maintain rail services during the work, and Mr Gisby said that instead of carrying this out during darkness over a period of months or years it might be worth considering line closures during times of lighter traffic.
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