There are exciting developments being made to Middle Engine Lane yard. The first stage of which involves the relocation of No.3 points.
No.3 points have long been a source of frustration. Whilst the platform at Middle Engine Lane is long enough to accommodate a three coach train, the current position of No.3 points means that the southern-most carriage is fouling the points. Thus, when running into the station with a three coach train it is necessary for the crew to a) stop, de-train, pull forward a coach length, run round, and then pull the train back into the platform, or b) lock out the front 3/4 of the northern-most carriage. With the vision that both of these awkward procedures could be avoided if the run round loop was long enough for locomotives to run round whilst all three coaches were stabled in the platform properly, it was decided to relocate No.3 points to a position further south.
The original position of No.3 points, immediately south of the platform.
Richard clearing ballast with the digger.
The new site of No.3 points being cleared.
Disassembly of the turnout.
Contractors from Bycroft Consulting carrying out the initial work.
Michael and Nev moving rail with the Ironmen,
The new alignment of the mainline.
Max shovelling ballast.
Members of the youth group packing out the newly extended loop.
08915 testing out the new alignment under the watchful eye of railway manager, David.
No.3 points in their new location the following week with fireman Adam preparing to bar the points over so that Illingworth can rejoin its train.
