passing loop

Definitions

On a single-track railway or tramway, an extra track provided at a certain place to allow two trains travelling in opposite directions to pass each other. It can also allow a faster train to overtake a slower one.

Equivalents

Examples

“From Blackwater there is a more or less level run⟳ through gently rolling farmlands and downs to Merstone, with its island platform and passing loop.”

“In the east of Yorkshire, Mr. A. M. Ross reports the belief of local railwaymen that the N.E.R. plans to single the York-Beverley line, leaving an adequate provision of passing loops, and to operate⟳ it by C.T.C. from York; [...].”

“Provision of a passing loop at Brading [Isle of Wight] at a cost⟳ of £1 million will allow⟳ a half-hourly service to replace⟳ the current unbalanced 20/40-minute interval service.”

CEFR level