Train services on the Wherry lines in Norfolk will be subject to disruption during weekends this month because of essential engineering work.

The work includes renewing and maintaining the track and railway infrastructure to ensure the railway can operate reliably and safely and includes:

• Replacing the track between Reedham and Haddiscoe to improve the train ride.
• Improving drainage at Surlingham to maintain the stability of the railway track.
• Tamping the track bed to repack the ballast.
• Renewing wheel timbers to maintain railway performance and rail alignment, as well as extending the track’s lifespan.
• Carrying out vegetation management in preparation for the autumn by reducing the opportunity for leaf fall and buildup on the line, which can affect the punctuality of train services.

Greater Anglia services will, be affected between Great Yarmouth and Norwich and between Lowestoft and Norwich on the following weekends:

• Saturday, 7 and Sunday, 8 September
• Saturday, 14 and Sunday, 15 September
• Sunday, 22 September

During these weekends, a rail-replacement bus service will operate between Great Yarmouth and Norwich and between Lowestoft and Norwich.

Passengers intending to travel on the Wherry lines during the affected weekends should check their journey plans before travelling and find out about service alternations online at www.greateranglia.co.uk or nationalrail.co.uk

A few years ago Network Rail invested £5.5 million to renew swing bridges at Somerleyton, Reedham and Oulton Broad on the Wherry Lines, and earlier this year added information boards describing Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve at Oulton Broad South station.

“These essential works are vital for a safe and efficient railway network. This engineering work will help us to continue to provide a reliable service for our passengers. I’d like to thank everyone for their patience during these essential tasks.”

Mark Walker, Network Rail Anglia route infrastructure engineer

“This package of works is essential to keep the railway running and make it fit for the future.

“A rail replacement service will run while these works take place, and passengers are advised to check before they travel and allow more time for their journey.

“We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while this work is carried out.”

Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia managing director