Trains Suspended Due To Easter Weekend Track Upgrade

Published on: 3 Apr, 2021
Updated on: 3 Apr, 2021

Guildford railway station is closed to trains in and out for the second Easter weekend running for further major track upgrading work.

The 2021 Easter weekend track upgrading work north of Guildford station pictured on Friday, April 2, from Yorkie’s Bridge. All pictures by Mick Stone. Click to enlarge them in a new window.

This weekend will see the completion of the biggest rail improvements to the area in 40 years, according to Network Rail, that owns, operates and develops Britain’s railway infrastructure.

At Guildford station, Network Rail says engineers are replacing four sets of switches and crossings, which allow trains to move between tracks, renewing a further 365 metres of track and 500 metres of conductor rail, as well as upgrading 12 signals.

At Shere Heath, near Gomshall, a new footbridge is being installed for pedestrians to cross the Reading and Redhill line.

Engineers are also renewing more than 100 sleepers and replenishing 125 tonnes of ballast on track in the Shalford area, while others are replacing rail supports on bridges crossing the River Wey at both Shalford and Godalming.

All lines through Guildford are closed until Tuesday, April 6, affecting South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, CrossCountry and Southern services. Bus services will operate for passengers.

Network Rail’s Wessex route director Mark Killick said: “We have a large programme of work planned for the Guildford area this Easter, affecting many different lines, so we are encouraging passengers to check before they travel.

“Our improvements will provide more reliable track and signalling at one of the busiest parts of our route, while the enhancements at Shere Heath near Gomshall will help realise our ambition of providing more services on the Reading to Gatwick route.