Railway station stone deemed for landfill is re-used in Yorkshire Dales improvements

They contacted a National Park Authority ranger and, over the past couple of years, have arranged for several deliveries of discarded stone for use within the National Park.

The latest delivery is a batch of substantial coping stones and kerb lines.

Richard Jakeman, from Network Rail, said: “We’re always looking at ways to reduce waste on the railway so when it became clear the stone destined for landfill could help stop footpath erosion it was a no brainer to donate it to the National Park Authority.

“It’s great that the thousands of people who travel by train to explore the Yorkshire Dales are now also being helped by the railway underfoot as they enjoy this area of outstanding natural beauty.”

Area Manager Matt Neale, from the National Park Authority’s Ranger Service, said: “Sometimes the passion that people show for the National Park is inspiring.

"J Murphy & Sons and Network Rail had the foresight and motivation to see that a new home could be found for stone no longer of use to the railway. They took the time to get in touch and overcame the challenge of transporting the stone and we’d like to thank them for that.

“The stone is very useful stuff for us; we’ve used it for through stones in wall repairs, for steps and bits of riverbank work. It’s saved us thousands of pounds and has helped us to keep the rights of way network well maintained.

“It’s a nice thought that stone that was once part of a bridge at Westhoughton can enjoy retirement as a step overlooking Lake Semerwater.”

Lake Semerwater lies in the heart of Raydale in Wensleydale North Yorkshire and is the source of the shortest river in the Country – The River Bain.

Whilst Semerwater is a good spot for coarse and wild brown trout fishing, canoeing, sailing and windsurfing which create an interesting spectacle for anyone wishing to sit and enjoy the views; wildlife or just have a picnic.

In Raydale there are a variety of footpaths for walkers and green lanes and bridal ways for cyclists, yet, Semerwater is an unspoilt none commercialised location, perfect for those who are looking to get back to nature.

The rail works taking place at Westhoughton, near Bolton in Greater Manchester, are part of the Wigan to Bolton electrification project which is a £78m rail enhancement programme to electrify 13 miles of track between Lostock Junction and Wigan North Western station.