Network Rail engineers to carry out improvement work over festive period to improve Hampshire services
NETWORK Rail engineers will be spending the festive period upgrading rail connections in Hampshire.
Engineers will carry out a major programme of work including the replacement of new track and rebuilding of Cow Lane bridge near Cosham, which is due to take place from January 1 to January 3.
On Sunday, January 3 and Monday, January 4 timber structures will also be replaced on the bridge between Fratton and Portsmouth Harbour.
The line between Basingstoke and Salisbury will be closed while engineers strengthen Millway Road bridge in Andover with buses operating a replacement service.
The improvements are being carried out to increase the reliability of services to London and in and around the county.
Mark Killick, Network Rail Wessex route director, said: ‘Later this week, our staff who have worked tirelessly during the pandemic to maintain and upgrade the railway for those who need it, will once again carry out a number of essential upgrades to keep the railway running reliably and smoothly for many years to come.
‘This means some journeys may be different, so please travel safely, follow the latest public health advice and only travel if you absolutely have to.’
Alan Penlington, director of customer services at South Western Railway, added: ‘The work being carried out by Network Rail this festive period is vital to ensure the future reliability of the network.
‘We’re asking all customers who have to travel to check our dedicated webpage.’