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Christmas Travel Chaos: Bridge Repair Halts West Coast Trains
13 Nov
Summary
- West Coast Main Line faces significant Christmas disruption due to bridge works.
- A £9.3m project will replace a 65-year-old bridge deck over the River Nene.
- No trains will run between Northampton and Rugby from December 27 to January 1.
Train passengers utilizing the West Coast Main Line are advised of substantial disruption throughout the Christmas period. Network Rail is set to replace the deck of a bridge spanning the River Nene in Long Buckby, Northamptonshire, an undertaking costing £9.3 million.
This essential work necessitates the suspension of all train services between Northampton and Rugby. The closure will be in effect from Sunday, December 27, 2026, through Friday, January 1, 2027. Replacement bus services will be provided for affected travelers during this time.
Further significant engineering projects are scheduled across the network. Upgrades to power lines near Birmingham New Street will affect services from Christmas Eve until Monday, December 28, 2026. Additionally, overhead wiring and cabling installations will occur between North Wembley and Bourne End in Buckinghamshire, and track drainage improvements are planned for Crick Tunnel, Northamptonshire.
The bridge replacement involves removing the existing 65-year-old deck and installing a new structure designed to enhance resilience, safety, and reliability. This includes improved drainage and protection against river erosion. Work to prepare the site, including installing foundations and stanchions, commenced in November.
