The route of a Transport for Wales rail replacement bus service that is currently running between Machynlleth and Pwllheli while Network Rail carries out work on Barmouth Bridge is set to change early next month because a road in Barmouth is set to be closed for sewer works.

The service currently operates via Church Street in Barmouth, but that is due to close for eight weeks starting on Monday, 6 November so that Welsh Water can repair a damaged sewer.

The main diversion through Barmouth will be changed to run via the Quay. However, there is a low bridge on that route, therefore the larger coaches that are currently being used for the rail replacement service will be unable to use this route.

As a result, there will be the following changes to the rail replacement service:

Semi express services between Machynlleth and Barmouth:

• These will be operated by alternative vehicle types that are suitable for following the diversion via the Quay. The journey time will be extended by 10 minutes because of the slower running of alternative vehicle type.

Semi express services between Barmouth and Pwllheli:

• These will continue to be operated by coaches.

At Barmouth:

• There will be a 10-minute allowance for transferring between the two bus services. A bus coordinator will be on hand to ensure that connections between the buses are maintained.

At Machynlleth:

• Arrival and departure times will remain the same, and times forward and back from there will be changed as necessary to coincide with train connections.

Ben Clifford, TfW road transport manager said: “We’ve been working closely with the local authority and our bus providers to try and minimise any disruption to our rail replacement service when the road closure is in place.

“We’re confident we have a robust plan in place and we will have extra staff on the route to help passengers using our services during this time.

“Due to the changes, we would encourage passengers to check for the latest travelling information before making their journeys.”