Network Rail has invested in a large project to protect journeys on the East Coast Main Line from unstable ground conditions.

Passenger and freight trains at Browney Curve near Durham have been delayed due to the moving land.

Network Rail has invested £33 million to stabilise 1000 metres of railway on the embankment.

Engineers have been working on the section of line since 2023.

Due to the force of trains, the slipping land has slowly moved the railway lines.

The project will take a proactive approach to protect the line from a landslip while keeping the trains running.

The work includes improving drainage, widening the embankment for better stability, installing 529 piles up to 25 metres deep into the ground, and planting trees and plants to further improve drainage and help nature.

The project has just seen the 400th pile installed making the project 75% complete.

The project should be finished in autumn, preparing the line for winter.

“Keeping the railway running safely and smoothly is what we’re here to do, and it’s paramount for us to take proactive action like here at Browney Curve to prevent problems before they happen.

“This is a mammoth worksite, the largest ever of its kind in Network Rail’s Eastern region, and our engineers are working tirelessly to secure the East Coast Main Line for the future. It’s a huge achievement to have done this while causing minimal disruption to this vital rail route, which will soon be better protected for passengers and freight for years to come.”

Jon Calvert, Network Rail’s portfolio delivery director