Passengers travelling between Sleaford and Boston in October are being advised to plan ahead as a major £1.4 million track renewal programme will see rail replacement buses operating across the route.
The project, being delivered by Network Rail, will involve the renewal of more than 730 metres of track between Hubbert's Bridge and Swineshead. The work is designed to improve the reliability and resilience of the railway, ensuring it continues to support passengers, freight operators and local communities for years to come.
Engineering teams will carry out the work over the weekend of 10 and 11 October, meaning train services between Sleaford and Boston will be replaced by buses throughout the closure.
The scheme will also require the temporary closure of Swineshead level crossing on the A17. The crossing will be closed to road users and pedestrians from 21:15 on Friday 9 October until 07:10 on Monday 12 October.
As well as enhancing reliability, the improvements are expected to provide passengers with a smoother journey and reduce railway noise for residents living near the line.
Network Rail says the investment will deliver significant long-term benefits, including lower maintenance requirements, fewer disruptive engineering interventions and the removal of temporary speed restrictions caused by ageing track infrastructure.
Eric Larocque, Network Rail operations director, said:
“We’re investing £1.4m to replace more than 730 metres of track between Hubbert's Bridge and Swineshead, improving reliability for passengers and freight services using the route.”
“While this work means some disruption over the weekend, replacing these life-expired track components now will reduce the need for future maintenance and help deliver a more reliable railway.
“We’re sorry for any inconvenience and thank passengers and residents for their patience while we complete these important upgrades.”
Passengers are being encouraged to check their journeys before travelling and allow additional time due to the bus replacement operation.
Philippa Cresswell, customer experience director for East Midlands Railway, said:
“We’re encouraging customers planning to travel between Sleaford and Boston on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 October to check their journey in advance and allow extra time, as rail replacement buses will be in operation.
“We’d like to thank our customers for their patience and understanding while this important work takes place to help deliver more reliable journeys in the future.”
The investment forms part of Network Rail's ongoing programme to renew ageing infrastructure across the network, helping to improve performance, reduce maintenance costs and support more reliable rail services across Lincolnshire.
Image credits: Network Rail
