Passengers on the Heart of Wessex Line are being advised to plan ahead of time for travel, with buses set to replace trains between Yeovil Pen Mill and Weymouth from 28 February to 8 March 2026.

A rail replacement service will call at all stations between Yeovil Pen Mill and Dorchester West before continuing to Weymouth. However, buses will not be able to serve Upwey, meaning passengers for that station should travel via South Western Railway services from Weymouth.

The temporary closure will allow Network Rail engineers to carry out vital work to strengthen embankments between Chetnole and Maiden Newton, near Evershot Tunnel. Crews will cut into soil and rock before installing soil nails and protective netting to stabilise the slope.

The improvements are designed to protect the line from landslips — helping to prevent longer, unplanned closures and ensuring the railway remains safe and reliable for passengers.

Engineers will also use the opportunity to carry out multiple projects. Stress testing continuous welded rail to boost reliability and reduce the need for heat-related speed restrictions in summer. Delivering minor track improvements near Thornford, following renewal works completed in September 2024. Managing vegetation between Chetnole and Maiden Newton by removing dead, dying and diseased trees that could disrupt services.

Passengers are encouraged to check before they travel and allow extra time for their journeys while the essential upgrades are carried out.

“This latest investment in the Heart of Wessex Line will give our passengers a stronger and more reliable railway. Over the last few years, we have been investing in the Heart of Wessex Line to improve services in the rural communities this route serves. Please plan ahead, check before you travel, and allow more time for your journeys to be completed while we carry out these vital improvement works.”

Tom McNamee, Infrastructure Director for Network Rail.