There has been a fair bit of negativity surrounding the tram-train pilot recently following the news that Network Rail would not be able to meet the already revised opening date of early 2017 for services to Rotherham Parkgate but despite that there is some progress to show on the line. In this pictorial update Stuart Cooke has been looking at the Network Rail metals on the way to Rotherham where some progress can now be seen.
Taken from a bridge on Bessamer Way between Tinsley and Rotherham this is the view towards Tinsley and the Magna Museum. As can be seen supports are in situ for the overhead.
Another view looking towards Tinsley.
Taken from the same place but this time we are looking towards Rotherham. (All Photographs by Stuart Cooke)
The modern equivalent of overhead bracket arms look heavy for a DC light rail line. Is this to be a 25kv AC electrification?
Yes Nigel. The OHLE is to NR spec and although initially energised at 750 volts, I believe it will be switched to 25KV eventually when the lines around Sheffield are electrified… One day. The plans have changed alot though and still are.
Thankyou for clarifying the situation.
The mainline is being electrified as if it were conventional 25kv, with dual-voltage trams, but they won’t change voltage until that’s the case.