Acongestion-busting £22 million tunnel will be fitted over Easter next to a Black Country railway station to replace a level crossing. The work in Owen Street, close to Tipton station, aims to bring eventual relief to frustrated motorists who have endured the gates being closed for 45 minutes each hour for passing trains. It is part of a two-year scheme - started last year - by BAM Nuttall on the West Coast Mainline rail link, overseen by Network Rail. When completed, traffic will be able to travel freely along Owen Street without having to stop for trains. It is hoped the tunnel will play a major part in regenerating the area by encouraging more people to use the town. In order for the tunnel to be put in place, the rail line will have to be closed. Network Rail said the work is taking place over the Easter holiday because it is one of the quietest times of the year for train travel. Jo Kaye, Network Rail's route director, said: "This work marks the removal of the last remaining level crossing on the West Coast Mainline. "Once complete this will mean better journeys for both rail and road users. ''We would like to thank travellers for bearing with us whilst we undertake this important work." Long-distance services will be diverted along the Grand Junction Line during the works. Aspecial bus service will also be in operation to cover local services between Wolverhampton and Birmingham. The tunnel will be jacked into position during a 101-hour occupation of the rail line. During that time the 58m long tunnel, which is 19m wide, 9m high and weighs 6,500 tonnes, will be slowly moved into position by three hydraulic jacking rigs. | 
