Network Rail completed £22m worth of essential upgrades across its Western region during the Christmas period by finishing various projects.
As part of the work engineers removed ageing and unreliable signalling equipment between London Paddington station and Slough.
This was replaced with more modern equipment and will help deliver a safer and more reliable service for passengers.
As part of the Cotswold Canals Connected Project the railway bridge over the Ocean in Stonehouse in Stroud has been replaced.
Over 1km of new track has also been laid in South Gloucestershire either side of Bristol Parkway station.
This crucial work will ensure the safe and smooth running of services between London and South Wales.
Work also continued on the Bristol Rail Regeneration programme at Bristol Temple Meads with tactile paving being installed on the edge of station platforms.
Mike Gallop, Network Rail Western route and Strategic Operations Director spoke on the Christmas upgrades.
Mr Gallop said: “I’m really pleased with the upgrades our engineers have completed over the festive period.
“These upgrades will help ensure we continue to run a safe and reliable railway for years to come.
“Undertaking this work over the festive period when there are fewest people travelling… ensured the number of passengers disrupted were kept to a minimum.
“I’d also like to thank the many men and women from Network Rail.
“[These staff] gave up their festive periods so we can complete these upgrades for the benefit of our passengers.”
Mark Hopwood, Great Western Railway Managing Director commented on how vital these upgrades are.
Mr Hopwood said: “We always work closely with Network Rail to make sure essential track and signalling improvements can take place.
“These upgrades are important to ensure we can continue to provide safe and reliable services.
“I’m grateful to our customers for the patience they have shown during this time.
“I’d like to thank the project teams for their hard work and dedication over the festive period.”
