Chorley Railway Station
Overview
The improvement works at Chorley Railway Station were required as part of Network Rail’s programme to electrify key routes across the north west of England to make journeys faster, quieter and more reliable for their customers.
EWCE were appointed by the Main Contractor to construct the new down platform and extension including in-situ foundation installation, PCC unit wall installation, ducting, Aco drainage, platform backfill, oversail blocks, coping stone and tactiles and final surfacing installation.
The scope of the works also included the refurbishment of the existing up platform riser wall and installing new copings, tactiles and resurfacing.
The station subway deck was also reconstructed during a 72 hour weekend possession.
Key Challenges
- Meticulous planning and programming of the works was required to successfully deliver the scheme, whilst engaging with local residents every step of the way to minimise disruption to their daily lives
- Much of the scheme was carried out during weekend and night-time possessions of the lines. All weekday work activities also had to be co-ordinated in advance to comply with the rigorous adjacent line open guidance set by Network Rail
- During blockade over August Bank Holiday Weekend whilst the Main Contractor was realigning both tracks, we reconstructed the station subway. The Manchester bound platform had to be temporarily adapted to align with the new track line and level and extension work to the Preston bound platform continue
- Other challenges were construction of both platforms whilst the station remained largely open and logistical problems that came with it. Solutions to these challenges were found in using both road and rail to move materials and utilising a variety of lifting techniques and cranes round the clock in both possessions/blockades and from high street environment thus limiting disruption to rail passengers
Chorley Station is one of the busiest on the Manchester to Preston rail route and is located in the centre of town. Network Rail continued to keep the route open for passenger services throughout the project.
Added Value
Modular platform systems including combined and tactile units were preferred as a single unit was quicker and easier to install than the traditional two-part system offering faster productivity during possessions.