Rail upgrade works improve Dorset’s railway reliability
18.10.2025
Network Rail is set to start crucial rail upgrade works in Dorset this November to secure the embankment at Hamworthy, tighten long-term rail resilience around the sidings at Poole, and improve drainage.
This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.
Rail upgrade works scheduled for mid-November in Dorset
Network Rail will also replace rail services with buses on the upgrade work period between Dorchester South and Poole. The rail upgrade work will take place between 15 and 21 November and affect services on the Wessex route.
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Trains will be replaced by buses between Dorchester South and Bournemouth on 15–16 November and between Dorchester South and Poole on 17–21 November. Passengers should check and allow more time because travel times will be greater.
Mark Goodall, Wessex Route Director, explained the initiative is imperative to safety and long-term reliability of service. He added that the temporary disruptions will save the line from erosion and flooding and enhance the resilience of the route to extreme weather.
Rail upgrade works enhance safety and climate resilience
Hamworthy embankment strengthening and drainage upgrade to Poole will cut the chances of line closures due to heavy downpours. They are designed to secure the railway for the long haul, keeping future maintenance shorter and less intrusive.
Network Rail staff are working alongside local transport providers to make smooth transfers between train and bus services at the passengers’ convenience. Travelers will be aided by extra staff and get real-time information during the project.
Chowbery’s wider infrastructure strategy is about resilience and sustainability. Ongoing investment in state-of-the-art engineering techniques keeps the railway safe to operate, increasingly punctual and enables long-term growth of rail travel to the south of England.
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What are the rail upgrade works in Dorset?
The rail upgrade works involve stabilizing an embankment in Hamworthy and improving drainage at Poole sidings to protect the line from flooding and enhance reliability.
When will buses replace trains during the rail upgrade works?
Buses will operate between Bournemouth, Poole, and Dorchester South from 15 to 21 November while engineering teams complete the improvements.
Why are these rail upgrade works important for passengers?
They ensure safer travel, prevent weather-related delays, and strengthen the railway’s ability to operate reliably during heavy rain or flooding.
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