Network Rail has completed the first major stage of its project to modernise railway signalling across Cornwall, UK.
With this milestone, passenger trains have now resumed service after 13 days of round-the-clock work between Tuesday 31 October and Sunday 12 November.
This undertaking has involved replacing signals that have reached the end of their working life with new digital technology.
While the line was closed, Network Rail’s contractor, Siemens installed new equipment and 35,000 metres of cabling before conducting tests of the new system.
In addition, work has taken place to upgrade level crossings at Lostwithiel and Truro to improve safety and reduce delays.
To complete this project, a further phase of work will take place over Christmas, prior to a final block of work in spring 2024 to make the new system operational.
Meanwhile, work will continue near Plymouth to renew signals in an area often affected by delays.
Once complete, the new system will improve the reliability and safety of the railway and will allow for the provision of better real-time information for passengers.
“This has been a productive 13 days as we work to bring signals in Cornwall into the 21st century. We needed to close the railway so our teams could work safely around the clock and we thank passengers for their understanding. We have more hard work ahead of us but when complete, Cornwall will feel the benefits of this project long into the future.”
