Network Rail is combining two pieces of essential rail improvement works at Bradway tunnel, South Yorkshire, on the line between Sheffield and Chesterfield in a total investment worth around £11m.

The work will be carried out between 8 September and 13 December.

Bradway tunnel was built between 1865 and 1868 and needs to be repaired and relined with concrete in several parts. When engineers began planning the work on the structure they discovered that the track was due for renewal in 2011/12 which would also require a closure of the tunnel. Following consultation with local groups and train operators, this has been brought forward to coincide with the tunnel work, minimising overall disruption and keeping down costs.

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Kevin Preece, area general manager for Network Rail, said: "This common sense solution will bring benefits for passengers, delivering a safe and reliable railway for many years to come. It will reduce the need for intrusive maintenance and the track works should provide passengers with a smoother ride.

"It will take us 13 weeks to do all the work that is needed so we have been working closely with the train operating companies and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive to divert train services where possible. If this cannot be done we are working together to inform passengers and make alternative transport available. We will have a member of staff on duty at Sheffield station to help keep services running smoothly. I apologise for any inconvenience caused by these planned rail improvement works."

(CD/JM)