Shropshire Star

Leaf busters out in force to clear Shropshire train tracks

Leaf-busting machines are being deployed across the rail network in Shropshire and Mid Wales to ensure train tracks remain clear this autumn.

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More than 3,000 hours of treatment will be completed on tracks across the Wales and borders network.

As part of Network Rail’s and Arriva Trains Wales’ joint plan, Network Rail’s fleet of specialist ‘railhead treatment’ trains are out in force.

The work will continue when Arriva Trains Wales' franchise ends on Sunday, and KeoliasAmey, trading as Transport for Wales Rail Services, takes over.

Network Rail’s specialist treatment trains clear the top of the track of leaves using high pressured water jets, aiding traction between track and train.

Throughout autumn, the trains will complete 3,360 hours of treatment on the route, as part of a targeted approach agreed with train drivers to make sure locations most severely impacted by the autumn weather receive enough treatment.

Alongside Network Rail’s specialist trains, Arriva Trains Wales has invested in new wheels for trains to prepare the fleet for autumn. Equipping trains with new wheels will reduce the need for additional maintenance during the autumn months, maximising fleet availability.

Arriva Trains Wales managing director Tom Joyner said he “could not be prouder” of all 2,300 of his staff across Wales and the border for their efforts in preparing for this autumn and especially the fleet and engineering teams.

“Our teams have been working round the clock and our commitment to handing over a fleet in the best condition possible to Transport for Wales could not be clearer,” he said.

“We have also made every effort to secure additional trains to help take the pressure off, if and when we do suffer storm damage and we will continue to do so up to the end of the franchise.”

Keith Winder, production director for Arriva Trains Wales added: “Arriva Trains Wales has carried out an extensive programme to prepare for the difficulties autumn causes on the railway as well as working closely with Network Rail on their plan to prepare for autumn.

“This includes fitting new wheelsets on many trains, with a six-month lifespan to hand over to Transport for Wales, as well as being able to repair wheels which become damaged, and replacement wheels on hand, when needed."