Train passengers face long-term disruption as it is revealed that Bransty Tunnel will remain closed until spring next year.
Bransty Tunnel, between Whitehaven and Corkickle, has been shut since July 25 when Network Rail engineers started scheduled survey work inside the structure.
They initially discovered that the floor needed strengthening before any work could start and now, have found historic mine workings which ‘complicated’ the issue.
Network Rail said the extent of strengthening work needed meant the tunnel could not safely reopen until completion of comprehensive repairs.
Specialist engineers are developing detailed plans to address the ground conditions, it said, and the tunnel is expected to remain closed until the spring.
Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said: “The safety of passengers and staff is our number one priority and I understand that this is really disappointing news for passengers in this part of Cumbria.
“Our experts have spent a great deal of time examining the data and having it reviewed by peers in the industry.
“They all agree that this is the right thing to do while further investigation can be carried out and a specialist plan put in place.”
Rail replacement bus services are in operation to transport passengers between Whitehaven and Corkickle while work in the 1km tunnel is ongoing.
Matt Rice, chief operating officer, for Northern said: “We are sorry for the frustration that this disruption is causing, and we are working hard to keep customers moving whilst work takes place inside the tunnel.
“Trains are running to Whitehaven on the northern side of the tunnel, and we are now also running trains to Corkickle on the southern side.
”We’d like to remind customers to plan ahead and check before you travel, as journeys may take longer whilst the tunnel is closed.”
Network Rail added that additional ground investigations would continue around the tunnel to build a complete picture of subsurface conditions.
Whitehaven & Workington MP Josh MacAlister said he was extremely disappointed by the news.
He said: “I’m also angry at the disruption this will cause to passengers on the Cumbria Coast Line.
“Tens of millions of pounds are now needed to fix this problem. I have already made representations to the Rail Minister to ensure that we get the funding we need.”
