Swindon to Kemble Railway Improvements
Work continues on £45m Swindon to Kemble investment scheme.
Between 9 August to 2 September, a team of over 600 people and 100 engineering trains will be out in full force to reposition 6 miles of existing track.
Signalling and telecoms equipment along the line will also be moved in order to make room for the installation of 12-miles of additional track.
The Swindon to Kemble redoubling scheme is amongst a suite of major investments, including electrification, earmarked for the Great Western main line, where it is poised to become the most advanced intercity railway in Britain by the end of the decade.
These planned improvements will play a pivotal role in helping to drive local economies, creating jobs and attracting inward investments.
Patrick Hallgate, route managing director for Network Rail Western said, ''We are entering a very exciting phase of the project as we will be restoring this stretch of railway to what it was before Beeching. The investment on Swindon to Kemble railway is vital to meet growth and to secure a rail future for passengers. In addition, good rail links stimulate private sector investment and enable sustained productivity. The railway gives more than it takes and by investing in schemes like the redoubling of Swindon to Kemble, we are also investing in the future of Britain.''
Mark Hopwood, First Great Western Managing Director said: ''We have been talking to our customers about these improvements for some time and we are grateful to them for their feedback and help in realising this project. This upgrade is vitally important to improve our customers' travel experiences for the future.
''Further improvements to the network infrastructure will pave the way for faster, more reliable services and makes the most of the Government's planned investment in electrification and new trains,“ whoever has the privilege of running the franchise beyond 2014.''
Once the scheme is completed in 2014, the railway between Swindon and Gloucester via Kemble and Stroud will be capable of running more trains and provide a more reliable train service.
From 23.55 on Friday 9 August to 05.00 on Monday 2 September 2013 Network Rail will close the line between Swindon and Kemble and rail services will be replaced by road transport between these two locations.
Passengers are advised to check their travel plans online at www.nationalrail.co.uk, or please call FGW customer services on 08457 000125 or visit www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk.
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