Wigan Depot Enabling

As part of the Wigan Springs Branch Depot remodelling project, Pod-Trak carried out enabling works at the depot entry to allow the depot to be constructed without affecting the mainlines. This was required due to the complexity of the points and crossovers along with the OLE termination structures.

The equipment consisted of auto tensioned Mk3b catenary headspans and cantilevers with switch gear. The scope included:

• OLE height and stagger surveys prior to any works commencing and post height and stagger surveys on completion of the works
• Installation of a PES on 2 Headspans to allow access / site setup prior to the isolation being granted
• OLE slewed and registered to the new alignment following the installation of new points
• Replace four life expired 4-track Headspans, this included moving the mast insulation to mid span and the removal of two auto tensioned Contact and Catenary wire runs closest to the new depot
• Redundant balance weights, wire, SPS and two cantilevers all recovered from site
• Install 8 sets of compensation weights on the 4 headspans to compensate for the 2 wire runs that were removed
• Profile and register headspans
• Remove from site two switches that were previously decommissioned

Due to the complexity of the works and proximity to the main lines they were staged over a number of weekend possessions. All materials management and build-up was completed midweek between the possessions.

Following the successful completion of the works, the client was able to commence their electrification of the depot.