Mexborough West junction odd layout

[18B]

Hi,

 

whilst studying this picture http://www.flickr.com/photos/91595553@N06/8589599053/sizes/o/in/photostream/ something very strange seems to have happened.

 

the two lines in the formground where previously the Up and Down Doncaster lines to and from Mexborough towards Wath, but as can be seen, as part of the bridge work taking place on the bridge that took the line under the Midland Railway they have been repositioned to be virtually sleeper to sleeper? There is a shine on the rail and the track looks ballasted?  

 

Anyone with any ideas or explanation as to what went on here?

 

I know the daye is aroun 1979 - 1980 and that after this year the lines became just two under this bridge toa new junction just in from of the 56.

 

Regards,

[woodyfox]

Looks like the line nearest the new bridge upright was just slewed over. Probably a temporary measure before singling. I would imagine traffic would have special working instructions while the work was being completed. It was almost certainly a cost saving measure to save putting in point work only to remove it a short while later.