Network Rail has successfully completed a major seven-day upgrade in the Somerton area, finishing on schedule and restoring train services this morning. The project, which began on Monday 8 December, focused on replacing a section of drainage beneath nearly 600 metres of track—a critical improvement to protect the line against future flooding.
The work involved removing the outdated drainage system and installing modern components designed for efficiency and resilience. Engineers also laid nearly 1,400 tonnes of fresh ballast and 800 tonnes of shingle, alongside constructing 14 new inspection chambers to simplify future maintenance.
At peak times, up to 25 skilled team members were on site, supported by two engineering trains, four road-rail vehicles, and a tamping train to compact the new stone and ensure track stability.
To keep passengers moving during the upgrade, buses replaced trains between Taunton and Castle Cary stations. The team also took the opportunity to carry out additional maintenance along the route, including signalling inspections and testing, fine-tuning points, and clearing vegetation around junctions and drainage systems.
Jason Pankhurst, Senior Programme Manager for Network Rail, emphasised the importance of the work:
“The work we have completed in the Somerton area over the past week is vital maintenance. Our new drainage system will take rain water away from the tracks much more efficiently, helping to reduce the risk of flooding in the future.”
Image credits: Network Rail
