This week, GB Railfreight (GBRf) has moved 11 Water Jetter Modules by rail from Peterborough to Wigan and returned ten Weed Spray Modules from Wigan to Peterborough, supporting Network Rail’s Rail Head Treatment Train (RHTT) and seasonal track treatment programmes.
Traditionally, the transfer of this equipment is carried out by HIAB lorries. As part of an established year-on-year maintenance programme, GBRf transported the modules by rail between its Operational Headquarters in Peterborough and its maintenance hub at Wigan Springs Branch.
The operation has removed 21 lorry movements from Britain’s roads and eliminated more than 3,648 lorry miles.
Alex Kirk, Commercial Director at GB Railfreight, said:
“This is a great example of rail doing what it does best. Rather than moving this equipment around the country by road, we’ve been able to transport it by rail between Peterborough and Wigan, removing 21 lorry movements in the process.
“It’s a simple idea, but one that delivers real benefits. It gets the equipment where it needs to be, supports Network Rail’s seasonal treatment programmes, and takes thousands of road miles out of the journey.”