Passengers are being advised in advance about planned track replacement work along the Cumbrian coastline, set to take place in August this year.

The renewal project will require the temporary closure of the Barrow Coast Route between Sellafield and Workington for approximately 23 days, starting from 30 August.

A section of the line has been impacted by ochre-contaminated water flowing from abandoned mines through Bransty Tunnel before discharging into Whitehaven Harbour. The issue, first reported in December 2022, remains under discussion with multiple public bodies and local stakeholders. However, separate from these discussions, Network Rail is proceeding with scheduled track renewal work to maintain the long-term integrity of the line. This includes replacing the track and drainage systems in Bransty Tunnel.


Network Rail has clarified that the renewal project is not intended to address the discolouration of Whitehaven Harbour's water, which is a result of ochre contamination from abandoned mines. Instead, the works form part of Network Rail's routine track and drainage maintenance program, ensuring the continued safety and reliability of the rail network.