Network Rail is continuing refurbishment work to the iconic Barmouth Viaduct on the vital north Wales rail link. The project will see a closure for four weeks taking place from Monday the 14th of November with passengers advised to plan their journey ahead via www.tfw.wales before travelling.

Engineers will carry out track replacement across the Grade II viaduct as part of the refurbishment project’s latter stage. The project will also see track renewed at Tywyn.

The restoration of the viaduct’s metallic features was initially planned to be completed in one go during autumn this year, however, the project has now been divided into two parts and will take completed over a two-year period in order to lessen the impact on rail services for the local community. Dates for work taking place in 2023 are still being agreed upon.

The refurbishment marks one of the most ambitious and large-scale projects in the viaduct’s history as it will also include the laying of new tracks alongside further repairs such as strengthening of the north abutments and upgrades to some timber elements following major timber renewals which took place during 2020 and 2021.

From Monday the 14th and Friday the 18th of November, rail replacement buses will replace trains between Machynlleth and Pwllheli.

From Saturday the 19th of November to Friday the 9th of December, buses will remain in operation between Machynlleth and Harlech, however, the railway will open between Harlech and Pwllheli allowing Transport for Wales to run a shuttle rail service.

Saturday the 10th of December will see the railway fully reopen in time for the festive period.

The footpath which crosses Barmouth viaduct will also be closed from 8pm on the 13th of November, reopening from 5am on Saturday the 10th of December.

Nick Millington, interim route director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said: “We would like to thank the local community for bearing with us throughout this period as we carry out these essential upgrades.

“We know how important this rail link is to local communities, so we’ve carefully planned our work around the school holiday and the festive period to minimise disruption as much as possible.”