CHANGES PLANNED FOR MOST FAMOUS FEATURE ON THE BRIGG LINE

Changes are proposed for the most famous feature on the entire Brigg Line railway route between Sheffield and Cleethorpes.
Network Rail is seeking permission from North Lincolnshire Council to make additions to one end of Kirton Tunnel.
An application has been submitted requesting listed building consent to install steel security doors on supporting towers, mesh on window and arrow slits, clear debris and undertake general internal and external brickwork repairs.
The works relate to the ornate grade two listed portal at one entrance to the tunnel which was constructed early in Queen Victoria's reign as part of what became the Manchester Sheffield & Lincolnshire Railway mainline.
Network Rail HQ in London has compiled a detailed heritage statement submitted to North Lincolnshire Council - our local planning authority.
This explains the impressive tunnel entrance is in Gothic style with imposing cylindrical towers either side. Completed in 1848, it is 1,334 yards in length.
"The primary reason for the works is to prevent access to the towers, through the installation of doors and window mesh. Minor repair and maintenance works are also to be undertaken," Network Rail explains.
"The works have been designed to minimise any permanent impact upon the fabric of the building, and are reversible.
"The cleaning and brickwork repairs are necessary to ensure the structure remains in good working order. This will prevent deterioration of the building and maintain its lifespan."
The statement concludes by telling the council: "The proposals will protect and preserve the portal ensuring that it is preserved for future generations and prevent any unnecessary access to the towers and maintain an important structure."
Sheffield author and railway historian, Stephen Gay, wrote an acclaimed book Through Kirton Tunnel tracing the history of the line from Sheffield to Grimsby and Cleethorpes via Brigg and Barnetby. Packed with pictures and informative text, it's well worth reading.
The portal at the other end of the tunnel is plain, unlisted and does not feature in the works proposed by Network Rail.
A public consultation period is now under way on the application and will conclude on July 1. North Lincolnshire Council will then make its decision at some future date.
It should be stressed that the doors are proposed for the towers either side of the tunnel and NOT for the main arch beneath carrying the track (now single, originally double). One of the aims of the proposed work is to stop birds accessing the towers and windows and depositing any more guano (droppings).
Meanwhile, Saturday-only passenger trains remain suspended by operating company Northern due to Covid-related staff shortages.
The campaigning Independent Brigg Line Rail Group informs us its Brigg Line Questionnaire is still open. Visit http://shorturl.at/jlIR8 if you want to make your views known.
The IBLRG adds: "We welcome participation from anybody in Brigg and Kirton in Lindsey; especially feedback on the Saturday-only train service that has served the communities since 1993, and the current state of the station area at Brigg."
Passenger trains may be suspended until December (according to the current timetable) but local public transport users are hoping the service can be restored before then.
Freight trains continue to use the Brigg Line, and Kirton Tunnel, as and when required.
Picture credit: Stephen Gay.