Network Rail is preparing for a week of essential engineering work in Somerset that will affect passengers travelling through the Castle Cary area next month. Between Monday 8 and Sunday 14 December, engineers will replace track drainage beside Somerton Tunnel in an effort to reduce flooding risks on the line linking Castle Cary and Taunton.

The upgrade will see teams of up to 25 people on site at any one time, installing nearly 600 metres of new drainage. Two engineering trains will transport around 1,400 tonnes of fresh ballast and a further 800 tonnes of shingle to support the work. With the line closed, additional teams will use the opportunity to inspect and test signalling equipment, adjust points, and carry out vegetation clearance around junctions and drainage systems to support regular maintenance.

Jason Pankhurst, Senior Programme Manager for Network Rail, said:

“The work we will be carrying out over the seven days involves the installation of a completely new drainage run that will take rain water away from the tracks. This is vital to improve the resilience of the railway in this area and to reduce the risk of flooding. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to passengers during this time and appreciate their patience as we work to ensure a safe and reliable railway for years to come.”

GWR’s Castle Cary station manager, Jordan Welsby, added:

“This investment forms part of a wider rail improvement programme to ensure the continued reliability of an important part of the railway. A limited number of trains will still operate at Castle Cary for London Paddington as well as trains towards Bristol, Yeovil or Weymouth. Buses will replace trains between Castle Cary and Taunton stations, with buses connecting Pewsey and Swindon at the weekend. It’s important customers are aware these alternative travel arrangements may make their journey times longer, so please plan ahead.”

The planned work will bring several service changes during the week-long programme. Long-distance GWR services between London Paddington and Plymouth or Penzance will be diverted, adding at least 15 minutes to journey times. From Monday to Friday, some trains will continue to run between London Paddington and either Westbury or Castle Cary. Services through Castle Cary towards Bristol Temple Meads or Weymouth will be unaffected. Replacement buses will operate between Castle Cary and Taunton throughout the period, with additional road transport linking Pewsey and Swindon at weekends.

Image: Network Rail