Essential Rail Upgrades Bring Travel Disruptions
Travelers heading to South West Wales this autumn should prepare for changes as essential rail and road works take place between Carmarthen and Pembrey. The second stage of the Port Talbot West resignalling project runs from late September into November, with commissioning of new equipment planned shortly after. Although the upgrades are expected to provide safer and more reliable journeys over time, travelers should be aware that the next few weeks will involve temporary closures impacting both local travel and wider regional connections.
To help plan journeys effectively, travelers need to be aware of upcoming disruptions along the Carmarthen to Pembrey route. Those traveling along the route are advised to note that several road closures are scheduled, which will impact access to important points:
- Ferryside - full road closure from 11:30 pm on 24 October to 6:00 am on 3 November, with limited access on request.
- Bertwyn - traffic management from 11:00 pm on 24 October to 6:00 am on 27 October, and again from 11:30 pm on 30 October to 6:00 am on 3 November.
- Sarnau - complete closure from 11:30 pm on 30 October to 6:00 am on 3 November, no vehicle or pedestrian access.
- Pennybedd - full closure from 11:30 pm on 30 October to 8:00 am on 10 November, no vehicle or pedestrian access.
- Kidwelly - full road closure from 11:30 pm on 30 October to 8:00 am on 24 November, access on request.
- Pembrey - full closure from 11:30 pm on 30 October to 8:00 am on 1 December, no vehicle or pedestrian access.
“By centralising control and upgrading our signalling infrastructure, we’re not only improving reliability but also laying the groundwork for a safer and more responsive railway system that better serves our communities. We thank passengers in advance for their patience while this vital work is carried out."
Visitors planning trips to popular coastal and recreational spots may need to adjust their plans. Cefn Sidan Beach, the Millennium Coastal Path, and Pembrey Country Park could be harder to reach due to restricted roads and altered traffic management. Those planning walking, cycling, or family outings should allow extra time for detours or consider using alternative transport options throughout the full duration of the closure periods.
Those exploring the area, including Kidwelly Castle, Llanelli Wetland Centre, and the sandy stretches near Ferryside, may also be less accessible. These attractions typically welcome day-trippers and visitors, but complete road and crossing closures will restrict both vehicle and pedestrian access. Anyone traveling through Carmarthen, Ferryside, or Kidwelly should allow extra time and plan ahead to avoid possible detours and delays.
Although the disruption will be noticeable in the short term, the project brings long-term improvements for travelers. With Port Talbot centralising signalling and implementing modern safety measures, trains should run more efficiently and crossings become safer for all users. When the upgrades are complete, travel along the network is expected to be more reliable, easing journeys for both local residents and visitors.