Network Rail announces further Tarka Line closures
0Network Rail has announced another series of closures on the Tarka Line to allow for essential infrastructure works to be carried out.
The Exeter to Barnstaple section will be closed between March 10-13 and then again between March 23-24.
In November last year, the Crediton-Barnstaple route was closed for 16 days for track renewal works.
Prior to the renewal, the nine-mile stretch of track had an average age of 55 years, with some components dating back to the early 194os.
Tim Maddocks, Network Rail customer service manager for the West Country, said: “Working with First Great Western, we’ve been able to plan this vital work in a way that avoids the busy Easter weekend.
“We would like to thank passengers for their patience while we complete these essential improvement works to make the Tarka line safer, smoother and more reliable.”
The first closure will take place between Crediton and Barnstaple, with the line closing at 11pm on Sunday, March 10 and, reopening at 3pm on Wednesday, March 13.
During this time, train operator First Great Western will operate train services between Exeter and Crediton, with a bus replacement service serving all stations north of Crediton, through to Barnstaple.
The second closure takes place over the weekend of March 23-24. During this time, buses will replace trains between Barnstaple and Exeter, as Network Rail’s engineers undertake further track renewals in the Umberleigh area and other essential maintenance along the line.
