Network Rail has been completing a major upgrade to the Gloucester signal box.

This morning (8th October), services resumed through Gloucestershire following the work.

Network Rail replaced over 10,000 wires, which is around 12 miles worth, in the signal box.

The signal box was built in the 1960s and contains some of the oldest equipment on the network.

Work on the signal box began on the 27th September, with surrounding routes closing to allow for engineers to work safely.

During this time, they also took the opportunity to replace a switch near Gloucester station.

This improvement work will allow trains to run smoothly and safely in the future.

“Signalling is the most complex piece of work we do on the railway and unfortunately it’s taken longer than planned to complete.

“We’re sorry for the disruption but it was essential to ensure the system was thoroughly tested so we could get trains safely back up and running again. 

“This upgrade has seen some of the oldest electrical equipment on the railway replaced, and will make our signalling system more resilient and reliable for many years to come.” 

Network Rail Western route director Marcus Jones