Despite the problems of Metronet going into receivership it seems that this will not affect the plans formulated for the use of the line for testing underground stock.

The line is now leased by Metronet and has been acquired by them in order to test and commission the next generation of London Underground trains. Over the next 12 months the line will be further improved and enhanced by the electrification of the former Up line, re-introduced by Alstom, with 3rd and 4th rail systems, and also equipping the former depot and sidings at Old Dalby.

Testing on the Underground has to take place in what is known as 'engineering hours' usually between 01.00 and 05.00 and has to compete with other departments such as the civil engineers, Signal and Telecommunications etc for the privilege so it is evident that a test line where running can be undertaken free of such restraints could be considered invaluable.

Testing is likely to start towards the end of 2008 but the line may see other trains before that such as NR/Serco test trains.

It was announced on 7th June 2007 that Serco had been awarded the contract to manage the whole of the test track of behalf of Metronet which will give them the opportunity to attract other interested parties to the line.

I shall report the progress as and when I receive more information.

Recent activity has included the running one of Serco's ultrasonic test trains known as the UTU4 on 8th March and later on 16th May,  top and tailed with two DRS class 37 locomotives.

	37218 heads north past the viewing platform at Widmerpool on 16th May 2007 Ben Wheeler
	Later that day 37259 heads the same train back towards Melton Junction Ben Wheeler
	UTU4 'top and tailed' by 37606 and 37612 passes over Bradmore Lane at Plumtree on Thursday 8th March 2007 Andy Royle