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Bransty Tunnel Repairs Delayed Indefinitely
13 Apr
Summary
- Bransty tunnel repairs are delayed with no reopening date set.
- Replacement buses have been used for almost a year by passengers.
- Permits are pending from the Mining Remediation Authority and Environment Agency.
Repairs to the Bransty tunnel, a critical part of the Cumbrian Coast Line, have been indefinitely postponed, Network Rail announced. The tunnel, located between Whitehaven and Corkickle, has been closed since the summer after engineers identified significant structural reinforcement needs for its floor.
Passengers have endured nearly a year of service disruptions, relying on replacement buses. This prolonged closure affects access for employees at two major county employers: Sellafield and BAE. An initial expectation for reopening by Easter has now been superseded by an indefinite delay.
Network Rail stated that while a permanent repair solution has been agreed upon and independently verified, the commencement of work is contingent on obtaining necessary permits from the Mining Remediation Authority and the Environment Agency. These permits are required to manage water contamination issues concurrently with the structural repairs.
The repair plan includes stabilizing the tunnel with specialist grout and installing pressure relief wells to manage groundwater. The project will also involve track and drainage renewal. Network Rail plans a minimal viable product approach to manage taxpayer costs.
