Renovation work on the Chorley Tunnel, UK, will begin in July, in order to accommodate an electrified railway for reliable and efficient rail services.
The upgrade is being funded by Network Rail, as part of its £1bn Northern Hub and North West Electrification Programme.
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The track through the 113m-long tunnel will be lowered to accommodate overhead line equipment, which will power electric trains.
The trains are expected to run between Manchester and Preston from December 2016.
Network Rail area director Ian Joslin said: "Significant engineering is required to lower the track, as well as install the electrification equipment, and there is no other option but to close the line while this is carried out.
"The closure has been carefully planned so that it is kept to a minimum and we are working closely with the train operators regarding amended services and disruption."
Following the completion of electrification work on the tunnel, the customers will have access to longer, faster, quieter and more environmentally friendly trains.
Additionally, three bridges will be rebuilt at Harpers Lane (Chorley), Railway Road (Adlington) and Lockstock Lane (Bolton) as well as the River Chor aqueduct.
Two bridges at Station Road (Blackrod) and Chorley Road (Adlington) will also be renovated.
Image: The track through the 113m tunnel will be lowered to accommodate overhead line equipment. Photo: courtesy of Network Rail.
