Essential track renewals: buses replace trains between Southminster and Wickford from Saturday 22 to Friday 28 August 

Route(s) affected

Between Southminster and Wickford

Description

Engineering work is taking place between Southminster and Wickford, closing all lines. Background information on the work can be found below.

Rail replacement buses will operate between Southminster and Wickford.

Background information:

Network Rail will be replacing 50+ year old rails and sleepers between Battlesbridge and Southminster during a 7-day programme of essential renewals, helping to maintain a safe, reliable and comfortable railway for passengers.

The track replacement work will take place along the Crouch Valley line, as well as significant maintenance work:

• Inspecting and maintaining railway infrastructure between Wickford and Southminster, including bridges, overhead line equipment and signalling systems, to help keep train services safe and reliable

• Improving drainage along the route to reduce the risk of flooding

• Clearing vegetation to minimise delays caused by overgrown trees and plants which can create a risk to the safe operation of the railway

• Replacing ageing buffer stops at Southminster station to improve safety at the end of the railway line

• Repairing part of the platform at Burnham-on-Crouch station, helping to maintain a safe and reliable station environment for passengers

More details on this project are available from the Network Rail website.

Check before you travel:

You can plan your journey using the National Rail Enquiries Journey Planner.

Replacement bus travel advice:

For helpful advice if you need to travel on a rail replacement service, including accessibility and bicycle information, please use our Rail Replacement Services page.

You can find the pick-up and drop-off location of rail replacement services by checking station signage or by searching for your station on our Find a Station page.

Please be advised that replacement vehicles may be busier than usual, and you should allow extra time for your journey.