Network Rail has provided an update following several days of disruption to services running in and out of Manchester Victoria. The works, which began this week, are part of the construction of a major new turnback at Brewery Junction, scheduled for completion next year.
What Happened and Why
During the week-long closure, trains did not run between Rochdale and Manchester, with replacement buses operating instead. The closure allowed Network Rail and main contractor Kier to complete track renewals and signalling upgrades essential for the turnback's construction.
Impact and Benefits
Once operational, the new turnback will provide greater flexibility during disruptions by freeing up space at Manchester Victoria station. This is expected to improve reliability for passengers in the long term.
Lorna Samways, senior sponsor for Network Rail, said: “We would like to thank passengers for their patience during this week. There is never an ideal time to close the railway, but this work is a really important step in the construction of the new turnback at Brewery Junction. Once it is complete, it will give our teams more options at Manchester Victoria and improve reliability for passengers in the long term.”
Boguslaw Kozlowski, project manager for rail at Kier Infrastructure, added: “Over the last week, our team successfully delivered key track, re-signalling and overhead line improvements that mark an important milestone in the delivery of this new turnback facility. Extensive planning went into this work alongside Network Rail and our supply chain partners, and we’re pleased it has been delivered safely and on schedule.”
