Rail upgrades in Wiltshire to affect travel next weekend
Essential works between Chippenham and Swindon to impact journeys
Passengers travelling through Wiltshire next weekend should be prepared for changes in their journey as Network Rail conducts essential track improvement work between Chippenham and Swindon on the 12th and 13th of September.
This effort aims to maintain safe and reliable railway services, with additional works including the installation of scaffolding for a new canopy at Chippenham station.
Impact on Train Services
As a result of the works, trains will not operate between Swindon and Bath Spa or Swindon and Westbury on both days. Replacement road transport will be available for passengers travelling between Chippenham and Bath Spa, Chippenham and Swindon, and Chippenham, Melksham and Westbury.
Trains running between London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads will continue via alternative routes, extending journey times. On Saturday, these services will travel by alternate routes between Swindon and Bristol Temple Meads or Reading and Bath Spa. On Sunday, trains will utilise the alternative Swindon–Bristol Temple Meads route, extending to and from Bath Spa.
Trains from Oxford to Bristol Temple Meads will follow the same alternate route but will not stop at Chippenham or Bath Spa. These services do not run on Sundays.
Additional Considerations
In addition to rail improvements, the Chippenham Half Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 13th September, which may increase demand for rail replacement services. Passengers are encouraged to plan ahead and allocate extra time for Sunday travel.
Oana Apetroaie, GWR's Station Manager for Chippenham, said: “These rail improvements are important for the communities and passengers who depend on these services - not just this weekend, but for years to come. The work being carried out will help us maintain a reliable railway for Wiltshire, and the new canopy at Chippenham station is something passengers will really notice when it's complete."
Mark Parker, lead portfolio manager for Network Rail's Great Western Route, said: “We’re grateful to passengers for their patience while this vital work takes place and encourage anyone planning to travel over the weekend to check their journey in advance and allow extra time where needed.”
Planning for Smooth Travel
Passengers are advised to check updates regularly at gwr.com/upgrade, allow additional time for connections and consider traveling at off-peak times to avoid crowded services.