Major upgrade works to commence at Chipping Sodbury tunnel
Community session scheduled for residents to learn more
Network Rail is set to begin a significant railway upgrade project in and around the Chipping Sodbury tunnel starting next month, inviting local residents to attend a session to learn about the plans.
Work will occur around the clock from 6th July to 2nd August, with additional efforts on 8th and 9th August, focusing on track replacement, drainage improvements, cutting strengthening and tunnel lining repairs.
A community drop-in session is scheduled for 10th June from 4.30pm to 6.30pm at Trinity School, Acton Turville, where residents can gather details and ask questions regarding the extensive works.
Due to construction requirements, train services between Swindon and Bristol Parkway will be rerouted via Chippenham, adding approximately 25 minutes to journey times.
During the upgrade, one train per hour will operate between London Paddington and South Wales though increased services will run between London Paddington and Swindon.
This segment of railway, part of the Great Western mainline, accommodates trains traveling at speeds up to 125mph. The upgrade includes laying over 3,000 yards of new rail, sleepers, and ballast, clearing drainage channels, installing soil nails and netting to prevent landslips, and repairing the tunnel lining.
Michael Pinkerton, Network Rail portfolio manager, emphasised the importance of the work for maintaining train smoothness and safety, addressing resilience to extreme weather.
“Working day and night to complete the work will help improve the railway’s resilience to extreme weather,” Pinkerton said.
Marcus Deegan, GWR’s station manager for Swindon and Bristol Parkway, highlighted the long-term benefits of the work for train services between London and South Wales.
Despite reduced operations, rail replacement transport is not planned due to existing train service arrangements, and customers should anticipate longer journey times.
“It’s important customers are aware and plan ahead as these alternative travel arrangements will make their usual journey times longer,” Deegan remarked.