OREANDA-NEWS. The work forms an important part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan, to provide a bigger, better, more reliable railway for passengers and will involve refurbishing part of the existing signalling system; replacing a number of tracks; and carrying out essential maintenance work. This will lead to greater reliability for passengers, paving the way for smoother journeys and fewer delays.

The nature of the work requires the temporary closure of some railway lines in the Worcestershire area. During this time, trains will be diverted and in some cases replacement bus services will operate.

Emily Luszcz, Network Rail’s project manager, said: “I’d like to thank passengers in advance for their patience and understanding while we complete essential work to upgrade the railway. This work forms an important part of our Railway Upgrade Plan, to provide greater reliability for passengers and improve their travelling experience.”

Brenda Lawrence, head of Snow Hill line services at London Midland, said: “We know there is never a good time to do improvement work across the network; however the works on the signalling system in the Worcester and Great Malvern areas this summer is essential and will allow our passengers to experience a reliable service in the area.

“We’ve worked closely with our industry partners and stakeholders to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum, and we strongly advise passengers to check their journeys before travelling.”

Rob Smith, Great Western Railway’s general manager, said: “The completion of the Great Western modernisation work will deliver the single greatest improvement to our network in over a generation; enabling us to increase capacity, the frequency of train services and reduce journey times.

“In order to achieve this however, there will be some alterations to services for our passengers.”

The upgrade work will take place between Saturday, 4 and Wednesday, 22 June and over a number of weekends in July and August.

During this time, passengers are advised to check before they travel through train operators London Midland and Great Western Railway. Alternatively National Rail Enquiries also has up-to-date travel information.