Major Rail Disruption on Newport-Gloucester Line for Three Weeks

Travelers planning to journey between South Wales and Gloucester later this month and in early August should prepare for significant rail disruptions. Network Rail has announced that the line between Severn Tunnel Junction and Gloucester will be closed from Monday, July 22, to Friday, August 9. This closure is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard the Severn Estuary line against extreme weather conditions.

This stretch of railway is vital for both passenger and freight traffic, and the closure is part of the third phase of a five-year project to enhance the line's resilience. The project focuses on preventing landslips in this exposed area along the Severn Estuary.

The Newport-Gloucester line is particularly important for travelers, offering a scenic and convenient route through the Welsh and English countryside. It connects key cities and tourist destinations, making it a popular choice for both local commuters and tourists exploring the region. The disruption will impact those planning to visit historical sites, attend events, or simply enjoy the picturesque landscapes accessible via this route.

Previous phases saw the installation of temporary netting in 2022 and the beginning of its conversion to a permanent system in 2023. This year, engineers will concentrate on a particularly steep cutting between Purton and Awre in the Forest of Dean. They plan to drill nearly 4,000 holes, each four to five meters deep, to install rock bolts and rockfall netting, stabilizing over 17,500 square meters of cliffs above the railway.

For travelers, this means all Transport for Wales services between Cardiff Central/Maesteg and Cheltenham Spa will terminate at Severn Tunnel Junction. A rail replacement bus service will operate, covering stops between Severn Tunnel Junction and Gloucester, including Caldicot, Chepstow, Lydney, and Gloucester. Passengers are advised to check travel updates at the National Rail website to ensure a smooth journey.

Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director, emphasized the importance of this work, stating, "The line between Newport and Gloucester is particularly vulnerable to landslips due to its exposed location along the Severn Estuary. With the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, resilience projects like this are crucial to protecting vital passenger and freight links."

This significant engineering work will also involve essential drainage maintenance in Newnham Tunnel, the renewal of nearly a mile of track, and the upgrading of several level crossings. These improvements aim to reduce future closures and speed restrictions, providing travelers with a more reliable service in the long run.

Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and consider alternative routes during this period to avoid inconvenience. The efforts being made now are designed to ensure safer and more dependable travel for years to come.