Farnworth Station
Overview
Working alongside the Main Contractor who was undertaking the works to upgrade the existing tunnel, EWCE were appointed to demolish and reconstruct Cemetery Road bridge, south of the platforms to Farnworth Station and complete improvements to the station.
The single span masonry bridge carrying the single carriageway highway over the rail tracks was replaced with a new, longer span bridge.
In respect of the station improvements, EWCE constructed two new platforms, access ramps and associated hand railing, retaining wall structure and installed new waiting shelters along with all associated M&E and telecoms works.
The station was successfully opened on 14 December 2015.
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 line. EWCE were given a single weekend slot to demolish and replace Cemetery Road bridge.
All weekday work activities also had to be coordinated in advance to comply with the rigorous Adjacent Line Open guidance set by Network Rail.
Added Value
These were cast by EWCE off site at the bridge manufacturing plant to reduce on site works and help ensure that the bridge installation was successfully carried out when planned.
The skills required to succeed on this challenging scheme were able to be drawn in some part from the local workforce, and by adopting flexible working patterns the station was able to open on time.