‘Flying Arches’ re-introduced to Leyland Chorley line

[Martin]

AN architectural wonder has returned to the railway between Chorley and Leyland with the historic ‘Flying Arches’ re-introduced after eight years.

The line has also re-opened following a six-week closure to carry out improvements as part of Network Rail’s investment in the railway.

The work was to allow electric trains to operate between Manchester and Preston from December 2016.

The track through the 113m long Chorley tunnel has been lowered so it can accommodate the overhead line equipment which will power the trains.

As well as upgrading the tunnel the 16 historic Chorley flying arches – Grade II listed structures on the approach to the tunnel which are the only remaining examples on the British rail network – were refurbished following close work and consultation with English Heritage.

www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk

[anacortesdamp]

Has the electrification work between Preston and Blackpool been finished? Travel will be a lot better once the old diesel railcars are gone. They were the latest technology when they appeared, but that was in the early 1960s, I think.

I remember our train ride to Blackpool, when I was doing my OND at the Tech in 1959-61, was an elderly Stanier Black Five with slam-door coaches. By the time I got to RCAT-Salford in January '62, the diesel railcars were in service - such high-tech luxury!


Frank

[noel]

Preston Blackpool is phase 3 Frank due to complete 2016
http://www.networkrail.co.uk/news/2013/d...missioned/

[germinal]

You are lucky to be able to get into the station now. Fishergate is a real mess. I know there is the entrance down Butler Street, but there are coaches going in and out ferrying train passengers to other stations. It's an absolute nightmare in that area of Preston.