Nine upgrades delivered in Somerset blockade

NO FEWER than nine civil engineering projects were delivered on one of the main routes between London and the West of England during a two-week line closure in late-March.

The route between Taunton and Castle Cary in Somerset reopened as planned on March 30 after work to replace seven bridges, improve drainage in Somerton Tunnel, and reinforce embankments.

All nine projects were scheduled together to avoid months of shorter closures, reducing the impact on passengers.

Many Great Western Railway long-distance trains continued to be diverted via Yeovil and Honiton until April 4, although a limited service was reintroduced between Taunton and Castle Cary on

March 30.