Major update issued after emergency closure on rail lines

Services between Hereford and Shrewsbury are currently significantly disrupted, with rail replacement buses called in, after the underground culvert's collapse. Now Network Rail has confirmed the line will be closed in both directions to allow for emergency engineering works to keep the railway safe. Network Rail’s engineering teams are on site, and initial estimates suggest repairs will continue into Tuesday 29 April.

However, this timeline may be subject to change once excavations have started and we better understand the scale of the damage beneath the tracks. Replacement bus services will remain in place for the duration of the disruption. Colin Lea, Transport for Wales, Planning and Performance Director said: “We've had to close a section of the railway between Hereford and Shrewbury on the Marches Line due to infrastructure issues.



Network Rail teams are now on-site and working on fixing the problem. “Rail replacement buses are available, but services will be disrupted. Please check before you travel.

Thanks for your patience.” Rachel Heath, Operations Director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and ask passengers for their patience while we carry out these critical repairs to keep the railway safe. Our teams are working as quickly and safely as possible to resolve the issue.

” Passengers can check the latest information on the Transport for Wales website..