Network Rail issues new statement on Baildon landslip

Engineers have been at the scene since February 5 after reports of cracks in an embankment near the town's railway station.

As a result, all lines through Baildon are shut and train services have been suspended while repairs are carried out. 

Network Rail engineers working to repair the landslip at Baildon (Image: Network Rail)

Services are currently expected to resume in the middle of March.

According to Network Rail today, engineers are removing more than 2,500 tonnes of soil from the slope in a bid to relieve the pressure on the land and protect the railway line below.

Work is being carried out around-the-clock with specialist engineering trains being used on site.

Train services are currently expected to resume in mid-March (Image: Network Rail)

Properties have been affected by the landslip and impacted occupants are continuing to be supported by Network Rail and its contractors while the work is carried out near their homes.

Richard Owens, infrastructure director for Network Rail's north and east route, said: "This is a large-scale piece of work, and our engineers are working flat out to repair and strengthen the slope and to get train services running through the area once again.

"We are continuing to engage with members of the nearby community regarding the work and want to thank them for their patience and understanding while we are working on site."

Network Rail engineers are working to remove more than 2,500 tonnes of soil at the site of the landslip (Image: Network Rail)

The Telegraph & Argus visited the site earlier this week and spoke to residents in the town.

Bill Woulds lives near the landslip but his property was not affected.

He said: "We've been here for nearly 30 years and we've never seen anything like this - it is rather worrying.

"The engineers have been working on the site 24 hours a day for the last 10 days or so to try and rectify the issue - it looks like a big job.

This picture was taken near the scene earlier this week (Image: Mike Simmonds/Newsquest)

"We wish the people in the affected properties well - nobody wants something like this to happen to them." 

Another Baildon resident, who did not want to be named, said: "It's a bit worrying but Network Rail seems to be doing a good job of doing something about it." 

Any residents who have any concerns or questions about the work being carried out should contact Network Rail on 03457 114141.

Northern is continuing to operate rail replacement services for passengers travelling on the affected Bradford Forster Square to Ilkley line, with passengers encouraged to check their journey before travelling via National Rail Enquiries or Northern's website and social media channels.