Media centre

Monday 4 Oct 2004

REMINDER: ENGINEERING WORK TO BEGIN ON LOOE BRANCH LINE

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

A major track maintenance and renewal project is well underway across Devon and Cornwall’s railways, as part of Network Rail’s ongoing programme to upgrade and improve the country’s rail network.  Work commences on Monday 11 October on the Looe branch. This closure will be for two weeks and work will include replacing rails and sleepers, vegetation and ditch clearance, level crossing work and essential maintenance at key sites along the route.  The line will be closed between Looe and Liskeard from Monday 11 October until Friday 15 October inclusive and then from Monday 18 October until Friday 22 October inclusive. Tim Maddocks, Network Rail’s Customer Service Manager for the West Country, said: “Although we regret the inconvenience caused by these line closures, this work is part of our commitment to providing a safe and reliable railway and will bring long-term benefits for rail travellers in Devon and Cornwall”. Line closures and similar work scheduled over the coming months includes: ·        Barnstaple branch                   11 – 15 October 18 – 22 October ·        Paignton branch                      25 – 29 October Looe Branch - 2 ·        St. Ives branch                         25 – 29 October 1 – 5 November ·        Newquay branch                     8 – 12 November 15 – 19 November ·        Falmouth branch                     22 – 26 November 29 November – 3 December During the work, bus replacement services will be provided and details of these services will be available at stations.  Further information can also be obtained from National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 and www.nationalrail.co.uk or from Wessex Trains at www.wessextrains.co.uk.  Andrew Griffiths, Wessex Trains’ Business Manager for Devon and Cornwall, said: "We recognise that these temporary closures will cause some disruption for our passengers, and apologise for any extended journey times.  We are making every effort to make sure that the replacement bus services run smoothly, but would urge regular travellers to check travel information on the web or by phoning National Rail Enquiries.  This work is vital to safeguard the future of the branchline network, and so we'd like to thank passengers in advance for their patience during this period."