The line closes for essential work. Stabilizing ground near Gillingham Tunnel reduces landslip risks and disruptions.
Engineers will also improve drainage near Gillingham to reduce track flooding. They’ll do general maintenance between Gillingham and Yeovil Junction. This includes inspecting equipment and repairing fences. They will also cut back trees and hedges.
Buses will replace trains between Gillingham and Yeovil Junction on February 22 and 24-28. Buses stop at Templecombe and Sherborne. Direct London to Exeter trains will run every two hours via Westbury. They won’t stop at Tisbury, Gillingham, or other stations.
On February 23, buses replace trains again, this time between Salisbury and Yeovil Junction. Buses will stop at all stations. No direct trains will run between Salisbury and Exeter then.
Network Rail wants to limit passenger disruption by diverting trains via Westbury. It is important to maintain the railway, and better journeys will result from this work.
South Western Railway recognizes how important the line is. Maintenance is vital for keeping trains running and passengers should check for travel updates. Buses operate between Gillingham and Yeovil Junction, and train services will be changed and diverted.