scope:

Scope of the handbook

When track components wear out or become too expensive to repair, they need to be renewed, either on a like-for-like basis with similar components, or as part of an upgrading or modernisation process. The criteria for deciding whether to renew or modernise are given in TE-MTS-0107, Formulation of proposals for the track renewal programme, and Track Handbook 22, Developing proposals for the track renewal programme.

This handbook deals with the renewal process after the decision to renew has been taken and proposals have become part of the track renewal programme. It also highlights the part that the Track Replacement Project team play in the planning and execution of the track renewal programme up to handback to the line.

Section 2 looks at the way that track renewals are managed and the role of the Track Manager and Track Replacement Project Team in the renewal process. Also described is the expanded role of Her Majesty's Railway Inspectorate in the approval of railway works.

The planning process to take the track renewal process forward to the start of work on site is discussed in section 3, and includes information on health and safety, and the detailed site planning undertaken by the Track Replacement Project team.

Section 4 focuses on the working methods involved in renewing plain line ballasted track, while the renewal of plain line concreted track is described in section 5.

Section 6 covers the renewal of junctionwork in all track sections, and renewals in sidings and depots and the renewal of longitudinal bridge timbers is described in section 7.

Renewal of boundary fencing is not addressed in this handbook, but is fully described in Track Handbook 5, Maintaining the track environment.