LNW-GW Joint
Veteran Member
Bit of an old picture as the actual curve has been complete for some time. They were working on the signaling last week so there is no reason to doubt it will not be ready for May.
The timetables are already done and the curve will be in use from said date, albeit just for turning stock around for the long slog back to Wigan via Atherton.
Theres no way (even if they magically found the trains to run the service) they could run it mainly because the drivers and guards needed to run it have not had chance to learn the route. Vic men do not sign up that way but I guess Leeds men could do it but even then its a long shot. Blackpool crews do not sign through Rochdale either only the East Lancs line and onwards to Leeds.
Travelled over the Copy Pit line today.
Speed limit through Holme Tunnel is still 20mph (shiny new PSR signs), despite the Northern Rail blurb that is had already been raised to 45mph.
Loads of re-sleepering has been done between Burnley and Hall Royd Jn, as well as complete renewal through the tunnel.
The Todmorden Curve looked finished but all the new signalling in the area is still shrouded in plastic bags.
Maybe it will just magically "work" on May 12 as promised.