Leading railway systems contractor Babcock International Group (Babcock) has completed vital
infrastructure works for the Downpatrick and County Down Railway (DCDR).
Founded in the 1980s, the DCDR is Ireland’s only full-size heritage railway, operating on part of the
former Belfast & County Down railway line. Run almost entirely by volunteers, it preserves and
operates vintage trains through the scenic County Down countryside.
The collaboration with DCDR saw Babcock’s rail engineering team undertake the upgrade of a
private farm level crossing, also known as a User Worked Crossing, and carry out life-
extension repairs to a track junction over the course of three days.
“Farm crossings may be simple in appearance,” said DCDR Chairman Robert Gardiner, “but they are
one of the most important features on a heritage railway. Making sure these crossings are safe,
visible, and reliable, is part of our commitment to being a good neighbour and a responsible
operator.”
The works involved replacing the old stone pathway across the line with modern rubber level
crossing panels, which had been generously donated to the railway by Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail.
“We were extremely impressed by the professionalism and enthusiasm that Babcock brought to the
project,” Mr Gardiner added. “The team approached the job with a genuine respect for the
infrastructure they were working on. It’s a great example of industry and volunteers working
together.”
Further work was carried out on a ‘frog nose’, the component at the centre of a track junction where
rails intersect. Over time, this part of the track suffers wear from repeated train movements and
must be carefully welded. Babcock’s team completed this in two days, restoring the turnout to as-
new condition.
This latest support builds on Babcock’s earlier involvement with the Downpatrick and County Down
Railway, donating redundant sleepers from the old Great Victoria Street station to the
DCDR in August 2024. The company has also been involved in complex heritage projects across Great
Britain, including the award-winning restoration of a listed turntable and critical track works at
Ferryhill Railway Heritage Trust.
“This kind of support takes real pressure off our small team of volunteers,” Gardiner noted. “We’re
still recovering from the impact of last year’s flooding and knowing we can call on skilled
professionals when needed makes a real difference.”
Steven Bell, Managing Director of Babcock’s Rail business, said: “This project reflects our
commitment to applying modern engineering expertise in ways that respect and reinforce the legacy
of historic rail infrastructure. Just as importantly, our staff enjoyed the experience and the
opportunity to share their skills for the benefit of DCDR.
“Collaborating with dedicated volunteers and heritage operators is a privilege, and we’re pleased to
contribute to the safety, reliability, and longevity of these important community assets.
“We’re proud to support the Downpatrick and County Down Railway in preserving and enhancing
Northern Ireland’s rich railway heritage.”
