More than a week of disruption for rail travellers starts this weekend as branch line between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier shuts for ‘vital’ replacement works

RAIL commuters face disruption from this weekend as lines at Lymington will shut for more than a week for “vital” replacement work.

Network Rail engineers are set to start replacing three-quarters-of-a-mile of track tomorrow (Saturday), closing the branch line between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier until Sunday 3rd November.

Buses will be laid on during the work, which the travel firm said would “help improve reliability and reduce the number of faults on the line”.

The new track will be treated by a specialist Land Rover which can travel both on the road and railway – a Sand Rover.

It will drive along the tracks applying a sticky sand-like gel to help trains grip in wet and slippery conditions.

The week also sees engineers carry out the first of a two-stage programme of work improving the viaduct running over the river between Lymington Town and Lymington Pier.

This involves strengthening the wrought iron columns supporting the structure.

There will also be “preventative works” aimed at ensuring the viaduct continues to safely carry passengers.

The second phase is set to be completed during a two-week closure from 21st December to 5th January 2025.

Mark Goodall, Network Rail Wessex route director, said: “We’re sorry for any inconvenience this work will cause and thank passengers for their patience during this period.

“This work is critical for the continued safe and reliable running of the Lymington branch line over Lymington River which we know is a popular line that provides visitors with regular ferry connections to the Isle of Wight.”

He added: “We’re working closely with our train operator partner South Western Railway and Wightlink Ferry company to ensure passengers can continue their journeys.”

SWR pointed out there will also be rail replacement buses between Brockenhurst and Southampton Central this weekend.

These are in place while engineering works are carried out between Southampton Central and Millbrook.

An SWR spokesperson said: “We’re sorry for the disruption that this will cause and would encourage customers to check before travelling.”