Bedford to Bletchley Upgrade to Close Train Line From 13 February 2006

The whole Bedford to Bletchley line will close to rail traffic for one week after the last train on Saturday 11 February. When it reopens on Monday 20 February the work carried out will allow the raising of line speeds from the current 40 mph throughout to 60 mph for most of the way from Bedford to Bletchley and for half the line in the opposite direction to Bedford. Speeds will be increased progressively in the weeks following the reopening of the line and once the re-laid track has settled.

The latest programme of work will mean that, with faster line speeds (the trains themselves have a top speed in excess of 60mph), overall journey times can be reduced as soon as the time gain has been established and a new timetable has been approved.

Route Director Julian Drury said,

"While the line is closed, we will be providing comprehensive road transport linking all stations along the line. This week in particular has been chosen as it falls during the half term holiday and is therefore the least disruptive to passengers. I know, however, that there are customers who use the service on a regular basis, and we will be ensuring that they are looked after."