Graham Mann, who is Network Rail Programme Manager Plymouth Delivery Unit kindly sent us the following views of work in progress during the relaying of the layout at the east end of St Erth station. This took place during the latter part of the 'Engineering Occupation' for the Hayle viaduct work which took place in mid November 2014. Many thanks to Graham for these privileged views.
The relaying work at St Erth saw the recovery of the two sidings which lay to the east of the station, opposite the signal box. Also the recovery of the east end crossover, so no more run rounds at St Erth. Though these haven't been used for many years it was sad to see this contraction taking place. The plant on the left is definitely the last rail borne vehicle to use the siding. November 2014 Copyright Graham Mann
In this view we see the imprint of the recovered sidings Copyright Graham Mann
A view looking east at the site of point for the divergence of the St Ives branch off the main up line, Copyright Graham Mann
A general shot from the up platform end after the re-instatement of the point for the St Ives branch. Copyright Graham Mann
A view looking east showing the plain track on the down main where the siding point has been removed. Mid November 2014 Copyright Graham Mann
Job done, well done, nice clean ballast and a smooth ride assured whether it be east towards Plymouth or north west towards St Ives. Craig Munday, a frequent signalman at St Erth said that he will miss the click clack of rail wheels over the points and rail joints once opposite the box. Mid November 2014. Copyright Graham Mann.