OREANDA-NEWS. Network Rail has launched a consultation giving members of the public the opportunity to comment on plans to construct two new sections of railway track close to Grindleford and Dore & Totley stations.

The rail infrastructure company is investing in this key package of work to improve capacity on the Hope Valley railway line, between Sheffield and Manchester. The work is part of a programme of investment to deliver faster, more frequent services across the North of England and stimulate economic growth by better connecting towns and cities.

The new sections of track being proposed will enable passenger services to overtake slower moving freight and stopping trains, helping create extra capacity on the line and improving the reliability and frequency of services.

The plans for the Grindleford area include a new section of track running alongside the existing railway through two cuttings and an embankment with modifications to the footbridge. At Dore, the railway line between West View Lane and Dore West Junction will be extended and a new platform constructed with a footbridge and lifts.

Phil Verster, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “The plans for Grindleford and Dore & Totley are an important part of a wider investment programme for the North of England. That programme of improvements includes the Northern Hub and electrification and will create space for up to 700 more trains every day and help provide over Ј4bn worth of wider economic benefits for the region. We look forward to meeting local people to discuss the scheme.”

A Transport and Works Act Order from the Secretary of State for Transport will be required to build the new sections of track. It is anticipated that an application will be submitted in spring 2014 following a period of consultation and, subject to consent, work will be complete by the end of 2018.