A critical infrastructure upgrade will future-proof one of the West’s busiest rail corridors, but passengers face disruption from 27 September to 5 October.
Gloucester’s vital railway signalling – the nerve centre controlling train movements across one of the region’s most important rail routes – is getting a complete electrical system upgrade that will secure reliable services for years to come.
But the essential work comes with a significant travel warning: Passengers should expect longer journey times across nine days of intensive engineering work.
Gloucester station sits at the heart of multiple rail routes connecting Wales, the Cotswolds, and the South West. The aging signal control systems require modernisation to prevent future service failures and maintain safety standards.
Travel impact:
Weekends 27-28 Sept and 4-5 Oct – Full bus replacement:
- No trains serving Gloucester station
- Buses replace all services to Lydney, Cheltenham Spa, Worcester, Bristol Parkway, Kemble and Swindon
- Express buses run direct between Cheltenham Spa and Bristol Parkway
Weekdays (29 Sept – 3 Oct) -Trains diverted:
- Trains run Cheltenham Spa to Bristol Parkway/Swindon but skip Gloucester entirely
- Bus connections serve Gloucester to surrounding stations
- Additional buses cover Worcestershire Parkway to Ashchurch
Chloe Coglan, GWR station manager, South Cotswolds, said: “These signals are the digital brain controlling all train movements through Gloucester and beyond and it is important that we invest now to maintain the railway.
“While we recognise no one wants longer journeys, this upgrade ensures consistent, resilient and reliable services for years to come. A comprehensive bus replacement service has been planned to keep you moving – but please allow extra time and plan your journey accordingly.”
Smart travel tips:
- Valid rail tickets are also accepted on local bus services
- There will be reduced parking at Gloucester, Cheltenham Spa, Bristol Parkway and Stroud
- GWR, CrossCountry, and Transport for Wales are coordinating replacement services
Ben Perkins, Network Rail portfolio manager, said: “Gloucester signal box is a key control centre to guide trains safely through a very busy area.
“It’s vital for passengers that it remains in good working order and this work will ensure trains continue to run smoothly long into the future.”
Image credit: GWR
