Network Rail are set carrying out vital renovation works on the iconic northwest Wales railway bridge, meaning disrupted services between Machynlleth and Pwllheli, seeing buses replace trains for five weeks from Monday 12th September until the 15th October.
Refurbishment works along this historic railway structure will entail upgrading the metallic elements, the laying of new track and additional repairs such as key strengthening works to the north abutments. Following previous timber renewals in 2020 and 2021, further upgrades to timber elements will be conducted also.
The metallic element restoration works were originally planned to take place in Autumn this year in one chunk, however this is now being split over the next two years, affording as little disruption to rail services as possible for the local community. The dates for these continued works in 2023 are still being finalised currently.
These essential works will ensure the security and stability of the rail link’s future for continued safe passage, allowing this historic part of the UK railway’s heritage to be integrated with modernised infrastructure for generations to come.
Passengers that depend on this route are being advised to plan their journeys in advance around the closure dates that are listed below:
- The railway will be closed between Machynlleth and Pwllheli for five weeks from 8pm on Sunday 11 September to 5am on Saturday 15 October.
- It will then reopen for four weeks, including half term.
- It will subsequently close again from 8pm on Sunday 13 November and reopen in time for the Christmas period on Saturday 10 December.
Nick Millington, interim route director for Network Rail Wales and the Borders said:
“We’ve carefully planned our work to avoid the busy summer season when tourism in Barmouth and the local area is at its height. We’ve also decided to take two shorter closures of the line this autumn, which means we can reopen the railway for the school half term and the Christmas period. We are grateful to passengers and the local community for their patience and support while we carry out this essential work.”
Network Rail will be taking advantage of the autumn closure to deliver further major upgrades elsewhere along the Cambrian Line including laying new track at Felga Fach and Pwllheli Station and upgrading several other viaducts on the Cambrian line.
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