PASSENGERS using Worcester railway stations have been warned to expect delays because of track and signal improvement works this weekend.

People boarding trains in Worcester have been warned by Great Western Railway (GWR) that the work will affect journeys through Oxford for nine days from this weekend.

Between Saturday, July 29 and Sunday, August 6, Network Rail will carry out track and signal upgrades around Oxford station.

The works are part of Network Rail’s Oxfordshire Connect Programme which will see a new platform and western entrance at Oxford.

While the works take place, no trains will be able to run to/from Oxford.

A limited number of long-distance trains between London Paddington and Worcester will run, using a diversionary route.

Trains will continue operate from Didcot, for connecting replacement bus services, and from Hanborough.

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An extensive replacement bus operation will help to keep passengers moving on routes between Didcot Parkway, Banbury and Hanborough as well as between Oxford and Oxford Parkway.

GWR Regional Station Manager Billy White thanked passengers in advance for their patience and advised them to plan ahead before travelling.

He said: “These works are part of a big programme to improve the railway in Oxford, but we understand the consequences this will have on our customer’s journeys and we thank them for their patience during this time.

“Buses will replace trains throughout the Oxford area while Network Rail carry out these improvements, and we encourage passengers to check their journey beforehand.”

After the core work has been completed, further closures will need to take place on the Sundays of August 13, September 10 and October 13.

Clare Mahoney, Network Rail’s industry programme director said: “This nine-day period of 24-hour working is a really important milestone in the Oxfordshire Connect Programme and we thank passengers, local residents and businesses for their patience while this work is completed. It is a vital enabler for the upgrades that will follow and crucial preparation for the introduction of East West Rail.”