The Llangollen and Corwen Railway has wrapped up a £100,000 programme of essential track renewals within the historic Berwyn Tunnel, strengthening the long-term reliability of the line.

Completed on schedule, the challenging project called for hundreds of hours of work from dedicated staff, volunteers and specialist contractors.

Constructed between 1864 and 1865 as part of the former Ruabon to Barmouth route, the 689-yard curved tunnel is one of the railway’s most technically demanding locations, requiring careful planning and rigorous safety controls.

The scheme saw worn rails, sleepers and fittings removed using specialist rail vehicles. The track bed was then excavated and re-developed, before new concrete sleepers and modern flat-bottom rail were installed. Fresh ballast was laid, and the track was tamped to achieve accurate alignment and solid consolidation. All activity was undertaken within a controlled engineering possession and subject to thorough inspection and formal sign-off before trains returned.

The investment reduces the risk of unexpected disruption and safeguards operations through this key structure. With the tunnel works complete, full-line services have resumed, paving the way for a new season of steam-hauled trains between Llangollen and Corwen.

“This project represents close to £100,000 invested directly into the safety and resilience of our railway. It is not glamorous work, and passengers will not necessarily see it, but it is absolutely fundamental to our future.

“I’m extremely proud of the way the team approached this demanding project. Working inside a tunnel environment requires discipline, teamwork and constant attention to risk control. The professionalism shown throughout has been outstanding, and we are particularly grateful to the many volunteers, including our Civil’s Team, whose support has been invaluable.”

Tim Pulford, Llangollen and Corwen’s Engineering Manager.

“Replacing track in a tunnel like Berwyn is complex work, but it is critical to the safe operation of the railway. Every stage was carefully planned and delivered in line with our risk assessments and method statements. To complete it on time and on budget is a real credit to everyone involved.”

Dave Shaw, Permanent Way Supervisor and Person in Charge of the Works.