The UK Government has announced a $191m (£137m) investment to improve the capacity and connectivity between Manchester and Sheffield.
Under the Hope Valley capacity scheme, several places will be created on the line for providing fast passenger services, which will surpass slower-moving freight trains.
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The aim of the scheme is to increase the reliability of services, allowing more trains to operate on the line.
Network Rail is currently concluding the detailed designs for the improvement of the railway section between Bamford station and Jaggers Lane Bridge in Hathersage, as well as around the Dore and Totley station, where the construction of a second platform is also due.
The work is expected to start next year, with the completion slated for 2023.
Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “I am delighted to confirm £137m for this scheme to remove bottlenecks on the Hope Valley line, transforming journeys between Sheffield and Manchester, two dynamic Northern Powerhouse cities.
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By GlobalData“We are committed to levelling up infrastructure across the North, and these important upgrades will make a huge difference to passengers, providing the punctual, reliable services they deserve, as we build back better from Covid-19.”
Under this project, Network Rail will be responsible for carrying out signalling design work, along with the tendering process.
It will hold discussions with the train and freight operating firms regarding the changes that may be required during construction on the network.
Furthermore, as part of work executed by the Manchester Recovery Taskforce, preparation for the inclusion of additional fast services is also being considered.
Over the decade, Manchester Recovery Taskforce has been looking at a variety of options for enhancing the performance in and around Manchester.
