RAIL users should expect considerable disruption amid engineering works on train lines this weekend, GWR has warned.
Network Rail is completing planned engineering works along the main line between Didcot and Swindon, which means GWR trains will need to use alternative routes to serve Bristol and South Wales.
A significantly reduced, amended timetable will be in place for services between London and Bristol Temple Meads, and South Wales, operating on a diversionary route from Reading to Bath, before continuing to Bristol Temple Meads; Bristol Parkway; Newport and Cardiff.
Services to destinations elsewhere across the GWR network will continue to operate as planned.
As well as significantly busier trains, journeys will also take much longer. Services may also be cancelled or delayed at short notice.
To help customers, those who have already bought tickets on the route affected for Sunday 30 March will be able to use them on Saturday 29 March or Monday 31 March, or you can claim a full refund at GWR.com/Refunds, according to the usual terms and conditions of the ticket type.
Replacement buses will operate between Didcot Parkway and Swindon; Reading and Swindon; Swindon and Bristol Parkway, plus Bath Spa and Swindon. Train shuttle services will operate between London Paddington and Reading/Didcot Parkway. Trains will also run between Swindon and Cheltenham Spa, and between Chippenham and Westbury and Frome.
Those travelling are advised to travel the day before or after and to only travel on this route on Sunday if absolutely necessary.
GWR Operations Director Richard Rowland said: “We’re sorry for the impact this work will have on journeys between London and Bristol and South Wales.
“We advise customers to change plans if possible or only travel if absolutely necessary.
“This works means that we are only able to run very few trains on this route and those that will run will be really busy.”
