Passengers in Birmingham planning to travel by train this Bank Holiday weekend are being warned of significant disruption due to extensive engineering works. CrossCountry, one of the city’s major train operators, has advised customers to allocate more time for their journeys between Saturday, 29 August and Monday, 31 August.
The planned engineering works are expected to considerably affect services across the network, with particular impact on routes through Birmingham. CrossCountry highlighted that ‘HS2-related work’ will result in the closure of the line between Birmingham New Street and Coleshill Parkway.
These works include the installation of a new viaduct over the railway near Water Orton. The replacement structure is part of preparations for the future HS2 high-speed line and will also enhance facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Patrick Cawley, Director of On Network Works for Network Rail and HS2, explained: “This August Bank Holiday, HS2 teams will undertake a critical phase of work to replace Saltley Viaduct, which crosses one of the busiest railway corridors in the Midlands. The existing structure is being rebuilt to make way for Britain’s new high-speed railway into Birmingham.”
He added: “We thank passengers for their patience during these works and encourage everyone travelling over the Bank Holiday weekend to check travel information before setting off.”
In addition, on Sunday, 30 August, track renewal between Wolverhampton and Stafford will necessitate rail replacement buses operating between Wolverhampton, Stafford, and Stoke-on-Trent.
CrossCountry also warned that engineering activities elsewhere on the network may increase demand for CrossCountry services, as passengers seek alternative routes to and from London.
Mark Anderson, CrossCountry’s Customer and Commercial Director, commented: “This essential engineering work is crucial for maintaining a resilient and reliable railway for the future. From Saturday, 29 August until Monday, 31 August, journeys through Birmingham New Street will take longer, with some requiring rail replacement bus services. We appreciate our customers' understanding and patience during this period.”
He further advised passengers to give themselves plenty of time for their journeys and to avoid bringing excessive luggage, noting that trolleys will not be permitted on CrossCountry services over the weekend.