Network Rail, in partnership with Colas Rail contractors, is set to carry out a series of track installations to boost the line’s reliability between Wrexham Central and Wrexham General stations.

This work will be executed over four consecutive weekends, starting on 22 July and is anticipated to be concluded by the end of August. This significant upgrade will lead to some alterations in service schedules.

The upgrade works will necessitate the closure of the Watery Road level crossing, affecting pedestrians and motorists. However, clearly signposted diversionary routes for road users and pedestrians will operate throughout the maintenance period. All vehicles, including emergency service vehicles, must use these alternative routes.

This upgrade project has been divided into two phases to minimise the inconvenience. The first phase commences now, with the second phase slated for early 2024. The first phase will involve the installation of five point-ends, laying 1.1km of track, and using 600 tonnes of new ballast.

Approximately 240 tonnes of scrap will be generated during this phase, all of which will be fully recycled and repurposed within the railway industry and in other sectors, such as road and highway construction and the production of new steel products.

Substitute bus services will be provided between Wrexham and Bidston during this period. Network Rail advises passengers to verify their travel details at https://www.journeycheck.com/tfwrail/ before their journeys.

The timetable for the upgrade work is as follows:

• Sunday 9 July and Sunday 16 July: 12:20 am – 8:25 am
• Saturday 22 July – Monday 24 July (continuous work with full road and pedestrian closure): 12:25 am – 5:20 am
• Saturday 29 July – Monday 31 July (continuous work with full road and pedestrian closure): 12:25 am – 5:20 am
• Saturday, 5 August – Monday, 7 August (continuous work with full road and pedestrian closure): 12:25 am – 5:20 am
• Sunday 12 August – Sunday 27 August (each Sunday with full road and pedestrian closure): 12:20 am – 8:25 am
• Sunday 3 September – Sunday 17 September (each Sunday): 12:20 am – 8:25 am

Kevin Felton, Scheme Project Manager said: “This work will help improve reliability on the Chester to Wrexham line and will enable future works between Wrexham and Bidston that will see an improved service for passengers run by our partners at Transport for Wales.

“There’s never an ideal time to close part of the railway and we know that our work will cause some disruption. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and will endeavour to keep the noise to a minimum throughout.”