Planned works
We always plan essential works with great care to keep disruption to a minimum.
Planning ahead
Our timetables are planned 12 months in advance. This means we can schedule in the time needed for planned works to improve the rail network.
When we need to carry out planned engineering works, such as replacing tracks or upgrading signalling systems, we might need to close a section of track for 24 hours or longer to complete the upgrade work efficiently and safely.
Minimising disruption
Trains run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so there’s no time when the network isn’t being used. This means work can cause some disruption for passengers and businesses. We plan works for times that cause the least disruption to you. This includes Bank Holidays, Sundays, and overnight when the network is less busy.
Why we work over bank holidays
An independent review concluded that Christmas, Easter, and bank holidays are the best times for upgrades that need major lines to be closed. Even though it might seem strange to carry out work at Christmas – when people are travelling to see friends and family – on average, around half the usual journeys happen each day during the Christmas period.
Watch to find out why we work over bank holidays
Planned bank holiday engineering works
Reducing the time planned works take
We’re investing all the time in new machinery and processes to speed up our planned works while maintaining high levels of safety for workers and passengers on our railway – the safest railway in Europe.
For example, our High Output teams replace tracks overnight using an efficient track relaying system. Significantly reducing the time the work takes reduces disruption for passengers.
In addition, engineering innovations mean trains can often now run on the line at full speed straight after track renewal work, so there are fewer delays to timetables caused by slow trains, and better journey times for passengers. Track renewal typically requires a temporary speed restriction on the line for a week after the work is finished, so the ballast – the stones beneath the track – can settle. Now, improvements in technology create a strong foundation straight away, so this isn’t necessary.
When works cause a delay
Some disruption to regular journeys due to maintenance and engineering works is inevitable, so it’s always best to check before travelling. National Rail Enquiries provides details of how planned works are affecting timetables. It also has advice on how to claim compensation due to delays caused by engineering works.
Planned works can occasionally overrun and cause unexpected delays. There are many other reasons why delays happen, such as the weather, signals and points failures, and damage caused by trespassing. Our delays explained section highlights why these situations cause delays and how we’re working hard to prevent the disruption they can cause.
When delays do happen, we know how important it is to keep passengers informed. That’s why we work with the train companies to get essential information out to passengers. Find out how we keep passengers updated about delays.