Line Closure Ahead as Network Rail Renews Decades-Old Track Near Sheffield

Essential engineering work is set to take place in Attercliffe next week as Network Rail renews ageing track to improve the reliability of rail services in South Yorkshire. Passengers are being advised to plan ahead as the work will affect services running through the area.

Between Monday 2 February and Friday 6 February, the railway will be closed between Sheffield and Meadowhall, alongside a blockage at Woodburn Junction. During this period, customers travelling with Northern, TransPennine Express and CrossCountry may experience amended timetables, busier trains, service diversions or rail replacement buses, with extra time needed to complete journeys.

The project will see a 1.7km section of track renewed on the route running north-east out of Sheffield towards Rotherham and Doncaster. Crews will replace worn rail sleepers and ballast dating back to 1968, delivering smoother journeys in the short term and helping to prevent future speed restrictions or more disruptive emergency repairs.

Network Rail says the work is a key part of maintaining a safe and dependable railway, ensuring the infrastructure can continue to meet the demands placed upon it by modern passenger and freight services.

Mark O’Halloran, Route Engineer, Network Rail, said:

“I would like to thank passengers for their patience while we deliver these track upgrades, delivering a more reliable and resilient railway. While we understand that changes to services can be disruptive, this work is vital to keep the network running safely and smoothly for years to come.”

Train operators have also urged passengers to check travel information before setting out, stressing that close coordination is in place to minimise disruption during the works.

A spokesperson on behalf of the train operating companies said:

"We’re working closely with Network Rail to keep passengers moving while these essential track renewals take place. Services will be amended from 2-6 February, so we’re encouraging customers to check before they travel and allow extra time for their journeys. We’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while Network Rail carries out these planned engineering works."

Image: Network Rail