Coleraine to Portrush Track Relay

FP McCann, in a joint venture contract with Bam Rail, has recently completed a 6 mile track relay project on the Coleraine to Portrush railway line.  Approximately 8900m of single line rail track was relayed, with new rail being transported to site in 18.2m lengths from NIR stock.  It was flash welded to form Continuously Welded Rail, a method which improves ride quality and reduces operational noise.

Works included cutting and removing the existing rails, delivery, placement and welding of new rail, addressing dipped rail joints, improving drainage networks, construction of new ballast retaining walls, track formation work to sleeper wet beds, supply and placement of fresh ballast, and selected sleeper replacements.  In addition, a number of improvements to the signalling and telecommunications infrastructure were also completed.

To carry out the works a full blockade was taken on the line effectively closing it to facilitate the works.  The full relay was achieved in 16 days, on programme and within costs, allowing full public services to be resumed on the newly upgraded line.