In Peak Express last year I reported that two Crossing Noses were giving cause for concern as they were becoming badly worn. These were Peak Rail points 4 and 7. Point 4 being immediately south of Bridge 35 at Matlock Riverside and Point 7 at the north end of the loop between Darley Dale and Church Lane. The Plc Board were informed of the situation and that replacements would be needed. A 5mph speed restriction was applied to both locations. The Board took the decision to use outside contractors to complete the work. After an on-site visit and favourable quote the Board took the decision to use MLP Rail based at Pinxton, Derbyshire.
The date agreed for replacement of the Crossing Noses was Tuesday 17th March. Luckily this was the week before the Lockdown was announced to deal with the Covid-19 crisis. With the aid of an RRV the contractors completed the work in half a day. The following day the Peak Rail P-Way gang finished off by packing under the new Crossing Nose on Point 7 and replacing a pair of fishplates with the correct lift. Unfortunately further work is required on Point 4 to replace a broken crossing timber under the Crossing Nose. Also a set of Junction Plates for Bullhead to Flat Bottom with a lift of ¼” on the latter was required. With none in stock a set was sourced at a very reasonable price from DTS. However due to the Lockdown restrictions this work has had to be postponed. At the time this work is eventually completed the opportunity will hopefully be taken to replace several crossing timbers under Point 3 at Matlock Riverside. This is the point at the south end of the platform line that leads to the headshunt.
The photographs show the work on Point 4 at Matlock Riverside. The old Crossing Nose is removed, the new one cut to size and finally the RRV and trailer is ready to return to Rowsley as the work is completed.
Roger Hallatt. P-Way Dept.