Network Rail clears icicles from West Yorkshire tunnels

Staff were clearing ice from the entry to Standedge Tunnel, which trains from Leeds and Huddersfield to Manchester travel through as they cross the Pennines.

The three-mile long tunnel's inside temperature remains at around eight degrees all-year round, so when outside temperatures drop dramatically, as they did last night, icicles often appear at the entrance.

While they create a dramatic wintry scene, they can cause damage to passing trains, causing delays and disruptions to passenger and freight services, and also damage overhead power lines.

Network Rail staff were out clearing the icicles, and also snow and ice on tracks and overhead lines to allow trains to run as normal. 

It also runs special winter trains equipped for the icy weather to clear the tracks and keep services moving. It asks operators to put ploughs on the front of their locomotives, and also runs empty trains overnight to keep tracks clear.

Chris Gee, operations director for Network Rail’s North and East route, said: “Work to remove the ice from Standedge Tunnel is vital so passengers who need to make essential journeys can travel on this key route, which connects West Yorkshire and Manchester.

“Winter is always challenging and I’m proud of our teams who work tirelessly in all weathers to monitor the railway, maintain the tracks and make sure trains can run safely. They’re out day and night in freezing conditions, but the cold never bothers them anyway.

“All year round, we plan ahead for snow and ice, as well as strong wind, heavy rain and extreme heat in summer, so services can continue.”