Worcestershire rail commuters set for summer of disruption as part of £100m improvement scheme

THE frequency of trains between Barnt Green and Redditch is set to be increased as part of a £100m investment in rail services in Redditch. The scheme also includes the redevelopment of Alvechurch railway station.

However, the work will mean an eight-week closure of the railway between Barnt Green and Redditch over the summer to allow Network Rail to deliver the improvements.

Almost two miles of new railway will be built from Alvechurch station towards Redditch and the new doubled-section of track will allow three trains an hour to run in each direction between Barnt Green and Redditch, rather than the current two trains.

Alvechurch station will receive an additional platform, a new footbridge and lifts to provide a better station and step-free access for passengers.

Network Rail has worked closely with London Midland to plan the work and keep the closure and disruption to a minimum for passengers.

Liam Sumpter, area director for Network Rail, said: “These improvements will provide a more frequent and reliable rail service for passengers, allowing additional trains to serve Alvechurch and Redditch every hour. We are also making improvements to Alvechurch station which will have better facilities and be fully accessible for the first time.

“Combined with electrification, resignalling, linespeed improvements and a new station at Bromsgrove, £100m is being invested in the railway in north Worcestershire to provide a better service and facilities for passengers.

“There will be some short-term disruption while the work is carried out and passengers are being advised to always check before they travel to and from Redditch over the summer for the latest information.”

Mark Goodall, London Midland’s head of cross city services, said: “I apologise to passengers for the temporary disruption they will face while these essential works are carried out. Ultimately, this work programme will lead to a more frequent and reliable rail service, which is better news for everyone.”

Replacement coach services will operate during the closure from Redditch, Barnt Green and Alvechurch, connecting passengers to cross city rail services.

The closure will be in place on four Sundays in June and for eight weeks between July and August as follows: Sunday June 8, June 15, June 22 and June 29, followed by July 6 – August 31 inclusive.

The rail company said passengers would be kept informed of what is happening including leafleting on trains, information sessions at Redditch, Alvechurch and Barnt Green stations, as well as updates via social media and at www.londonmidland.com/redditch