MAJOR rail works set to cause weeks of disruption for passengers could 'be worth it' amid constant flooding issues for nearby householders.
Network Rail will carry out the upgrades near Chipping Sodbury tunnel between July 6 and August 2, with additional works planned for August 8 and 9.
The project includes track replacement, drainage improvements, strengthening of the surrounding railway cuttings, and repairs to the tunnel lining.
In 2024, during Storm Bert, which saw a major incident declared in Yate - flooding on the major train line at Chipping Sodbury once again caused rail chaos on the Swindon - Bristol Parkway line.
Last summer Network Rail began the latest stage of work to mitigate the impacts of flooding on the railway, with the upcoming works set to add to these efforts.
Thornbury and Yate MP Claire Young said: "I've been in regular touch with Network Rail over the issues at Chipping Sodbury tunnel and I'm pleased that this work is being carried out.
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"Although a lot of the work is general maintenance, it will also add to the efforts to stop flooding in the tunnel, which in the past has affected residents downline in Yate, as well as badly disrupting train services.
"Hopefully the short term disruption will be worth it in the long run."
Michael Pinkerton, Network Rail portfolio manager, said: "Our work will help keep trains running smoothly and safely and benefit passengers long into the future.
"We’ll be working day and night to complete the work, which will also help improve the railway’s resilience to extreme weather."
To facilitate the works, trains will not run directly between Swindon and Bristol Parkway.
Services will be diverted via Chippenham, adding 25 minutes to journey times.
Only one train per hour will operate between London Paddington and South Wales during the works, though additional trains will run between London Paddington and Swindon.
Marcus Deegan, GWR’s station manager for Swindon and Bristol Parkway, said: "The work planned will help maintain train services between London and South Wales using the Chipping Sodbury tunnel for years to come.
"Rail replacement transport is not planned as trains will still operate between Swindon and Bristol Parkway, however these will be reduced.
"It’s important customers are aware and plan ahead as these alternative travel arrangements will make their usual journey times longer."
More than 3,000 yards of new rail, sleepers, and ballast will be laid east of Chipping Sodbury tunnel.
Drainage channels will also be cleared as part of the works.
Soil nails and netting will be installed on the cuttings to help prevent landslips.
The project follows works carried out last year to raise 200m of track by up to 20cm at the western end of the tunnel.
Network Rail also replaced two of the four pumps located near the tunnel during that phase of improvements.
A community drop-in session will be held on Wednesday, June 10 at Trinity School in Acton Turville.
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