The £80m project is part of a £137m investment and will see the VolkerRailStory JV undertake extensive enhancement works to remove several bottlenecks along the route to improve reliability, increase passenger services and aid in freight movements.

The Hope Valley Capacity Scheme forms part of the government’s commitment to upgrade the rail network across the North of England, and meet future passenger demands.

The project will be split across two main elements, which are:

1. Dore and Totley station – Construct a second line at Dore Station Junction and extending track between West View Lane and Dore South Junction, as well as building a second platform to Dore Station and improvements to standage on Heely Loop.
2. Bamford Loop – Construct a 1km passing loop alongside the existing railway to the east of Bamford station for passenger services to overtake freight trains

As part of the project, the VolkerRailStory JV will also be delivering a variety of community projects, including volunteering, schools engagement, work placements and other opportunities for young people.

Paul Jones, operations director for VolkerRail, said: “This project will create much needed improvements to passengers in the north of England. Through a collaborative approach, with our joint venture partner, Story, we aim to build for the future, as we undertake the significant upgrades along the network. The rural locations, in which we will be working, offer a beautiful landscape for passengers and we will ensure minimal impact to the natural environment.”

Martin Smith, managing director for Story Contracting’s Rail Division said “We are delighted to be delivering this significant project for Network Rail, building for the future of the north of England’s transport infrastructure with VolkerRail. In addition to the actual delivery of the scheme, we are looking forward to working with the local communities, businesses and educational establishments to deliver on the social value aspects of the project.”