Network Rail is inviting Cheshire residents to a series of information events to find out more about upcoming railway vegetation work on the 17 mile stretch of railway between Crewe and Dutton.
The work, which will take place during daylight hours between Monday and Friday from July until the end of the year, is required to keep train passengers and staff safe.
Last year around 1,000 trains collided with fallen trees or large branches – a number Network Rail is keen to reduce. Each year there are many more instances of trees and branches blocking or closing lines, disrupting train passengers’ journeys.
Cutting vegetation back a safe distance from the tracks enables train drivers to clearly see signals – the traffic lights of the railway – and to spot potential hazards as soon as possible.
A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “We encourage our lineside neighbours to come along to understand the work we are doing and any impact it will have on them.
“Our project team will be there to answer any questions from residents and address any concerns they may have.
“Vegetation management is an essential part of railway maintenance and this work is crucial to keeping both trains and passengers safe on the network.”
At the three events in Crewe, Northwich and Winsford Network Rail staff will be on hand to explain why this work is so important for railway safety and how they will tackle the challenge in this area.
From 4-7pm on Tuesday 27 June 2017 at What’s Happening On North Street, North Street, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 4NJ.
From 4-7pm on Wednesday 28 June 2017 at St. John’s Church Centre, School Lane, Hartford, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 1NP.
From 4-7pm on Monday 3 July 2017 at Wharton Conservative Club, 34 School Road, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 3AH.
For further information contact Network Rail’s national helpline on 03457 114 141.