Network Rail has announced upgrade work will be taking place on the Trent Valley Line between Stafford and Rugby for the next few weeks.

Passengers are being asked to check journey details before they book as a series of weekend line closures will take place.

The work is being carried out on 24-25 July, 31 July-1 August, 7-8 August and 14-15 August.

Improvements to the line will see new track being laid along with changes to the signalling system

For passengers using London Northwestern and West Midlands Railway services, rail replacement buses will be in operation between:

• Rugby – Stafford
• Hednesford – Rugeley Trent Valley
• Bermuda Park/Coventry Arena – Nuneaton

A revised timetable will be in place to minimise disruption for passengers.

Avanti West Coast services will be diverted via Birmingham New Street, meaning fewer trains and slightly longer journey times.

James Dean, Network Rail’s West Coast South route director, said: “We’re really pleased to be investing in the Trent Valley Line so that passengers get the journeys they deserve as they continue to return to the railway. The investment is a key part of our work to support the post-pandemic recovery, helping the country build back better.

“Services will only be affected during the weekends with some journeys replaced by buses to ensure passengers can still get to where they need to be. I’d urge people to check National Rail Enquiries, so they know exactly what to expect from their journey.”

Lawrence Bowman, West Midlands Trains’ customer experience director, said: “We all want a modern reliable train service, so track maintenance and upgrades cannot be avoided. The good news is we all benefit from these upgrades. So, the advice as always is plan ahead and allow more time for your journey if you are travelling during this period.”

Gus Dunster, executive director of operations and safety at Avanti West Coast, said: “There’ll be changes to our services while Network Rail carry out essential improvement works. During these weekends we’ll be operating a reduced service and journeys will take longer. We strongly recommend you make a reservation, plan your journey in advance as well as check the National Rail Enquiries website before travelling.”

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