Work to install a new tunnel under the east coast mainline is underway

Werrington Tunnel
Engineers will work to install a concrete tunnel under the east coast mainline at Werrington. Credit: Network Rail

Work to install a new tunnel under the east coast mainline just north of Peterborough has started as part of the continuing upgrade of the line. 

  • Watch a practice run by engineers.

The work at Werrington will mean disruption for passengers travelling through Peterborough, with diverted routes and rail replacement services. 

Engineers say they've been planning this part of the project with military precision.

It's part of a £1.2 billion upgrade programme for key parts of the east coast mainline to improve journeys for passengers between London, Cambridgeshire and the north of England.

When finished it will mean quicker and more reliable journey times across the route.

The new tunnel at Werrington will allow slower freight services to dive under the east coast mainline instead of crossing it, making more space for additional passenger services.

The work is scheduled to take place between Saturday 16th January and Sunday 24th January.

Three of the east coast mainline tracks will be removed and the concrete box structure which will carry the new lines, will be pushed in place.