RAIL users in Rugby have welcomed track improvements carried out while train services have been reduced during the pandemic.
Network Rail has just completed major drainage and track work in Kilsby Tunnel – on the main Rugby to London line – after taking advantage of the greatly reduced lockdown services. The line reopened on Monday.
Stephanie Clifford, chair of Rugby Rail Users Group (RRUG), said: “One of the few upsides of the coronavirus pandemic is that it has allowed the tracks near Rugby to be closed for work which would have otherwise been very disruptive to passengers.
“Kilsby Tunnel has been wet for many years, with water dripping onto trains. Work has also been completed at Stowe Hill Tunnel near Weedon, which is on the same main line.
“I would like to thank Network Rail for seizing the initiative to do this work at what is a challenging time for everyone.”
RRUG has also welcomed the step towards more normal services.
Stephanie added: “Rugby station has had only a skeleton train service during the lockdown weeks. This is set to change from today, with extra trains, especially in the morning and evening rush hours. “However, this is not a return to normal services, and we can expect extra distancing and precautions to be in place.
“In particular, a one-way pedestrian system will be operating at Rugby station – it will only be possible to enter the station from the main doors, and exit will only be via the post office side. Train capacity will still be much reduced, and the best advice remains “do not travel” at all.”
