From the end of September, Transport for Wales and Network Rail will be carrying out essential maintenance work.

The work requires a four-week closure and will see buses replace trains from 29th September until 26th October.

They will be carrying out vegetation management work and removing at-risk trees to improve safety in the event of a storm or high winds.

This work will take place on the Conwy Valley Line between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Llandudno Junction.

During the inevitable change in weather, especially extreme weather conditions, parts of the line are particularly at risk of delays due to fallen trees and line blockages due to vegetation.

In the last 10 years, storm damage and fallen trees have closed the line for over 500 days in total, which is one of the highest across its network.

Below is an image of previous damage to the line, which has seen a closure:

This proactive work aims to prevent these closures where possible and keep people moving.

This project also forms part of a £1.4 million campaign to strengthen the railway against extreme weather and improve both safety and reliability.

As buses will replace services, passengers are advised to check before they travel online and leave additional time to get to their destination.

To keep passengers moving during the closure, buses will replace trains between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog.

“The Conwy Valley line is one of the most vulnerable sections of railway in Wales, with storms and high winds frequently causing long closures.

 “By taking this proactive step to remove high-risk trees, we’re protecting the safe operation of the line for the future, reducing disruption for passengers and supporting communities who rely on this vital connection to North Wales and beyond.”

Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales & Borders