Network Rail is urging passengers to check before travelling between Shrewsbury and Crewe during the upcoming bank holiday weekend.

Workers will be renewing tracks near Wem station in Shropshire, where Network Rail replaced a bridge two years ago.

Buses will replace trains between Shrewsbury and Crewe from Saturday 25 May to Monday 27 May inclusive, stopping at Yorton, Wem, Prees, Whitchurch, Wrenbury, Nantwich and Crewe.

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Network Rail workers will replace more than 260m of track, including switches and crossings, installing more than 2,400 tonnes of new ballast, which tamping machines will pack around the track.

Wem level crossing will close to vehicles and pedestrians from 12.05am on Saturday 25 May until 4am on Tuesday 28 May. A signed diversion will be in place.

Marshals will be on duty at the crossing, and will allow pedestrians to cross when it is safe to do so. However, there are likely to be long periods of time when this is not possible, because of engineering trains and machinery on the track.

Pedestrians may take an alternative route via the footbridge between Isherwood Way and Aston Road for the duration of the works.

The line between Shrewsbury and Crewe will also close on the following weekend, 1-2 June, when Network Rail workers will be renewing track at Yorton.

Trains that usually operate via Nantwich will instead run via Wrexham/Chester.

Buses will replace trains between Shrewsbury and Crewe via Nantwich. A shuttle train service will run between Crewe and Manchester Piccadilly.

“We are working really hard to improve train service punctuality and this essential work in Shropshire is a part of our commitment to do that.

“We recognise there is never a good time to close the railway, but we have planned the renewals to minimise disruption as much as possible.

“I would like to thank passengers and our lineside neighbours for their patience during these works.”

Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director