Network Rail to close Lymington rail line for ‘vital’ work

RAIL lines at Lymington will be closed for more than a week for vital replacement work.

Three quarters of a mile of track between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier will be replaced between Saturday 26th October and Sunday 3rd November.

A Network Rail spokesperson said the works will “improve reliability” and reduce the number of faults on the line, with buses replacing rail services while the work is under way.

Once laid, the new track will be treated by a specialist Land Rover able to travel on both road and rail – known as a Sand Rover – which will drive along the tracks and apply a sticky sand-like gel to help the train wheels grip the tracks in wet and slippery conditions.

Engineers will also begin the first of a two-stage work programme to strengthen the viaduct which runs over the river between Lymington Town and Lymington Pier stations.

This includes improving the wrought iron columns which support the structure and “preventative works” to make sure the viaduct continues to safely carry passengers.

This second phase of the work will be completed at the end of the year, when the line will be closed again from Saturday 21st December to Sunday 5th January 2025.

Network Rail’s Wessex route director Mark Goodall 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.

“During this time, the railway between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier will be closed, and a rail replacement bus service will be in operation to allow our engineers to safely complete their work.

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