Thousands of rail passengers face major disruption this weekend as Network Rail closes key lines near Reading and Windsor for essential engineering works.
The planned maintenance includes renewing a critical junction near Reading station and upgrading the line between Staines and Windsor. Both Great Western Railway and South Western Railway services will be severely affected.
The Reading junction renewal is particularly complex, targeting one of the busiest railway hubs outside London. Meanwhile, upgrade works between Staines and Windsor will hit the key route to Windsor & Eton Riverside hard.
GWR passengers travelling through Reading will face significant changes to their journeys. SWR commuters between Staines and Windsor must expect diversions and replacement bus services. Network Rail has urged all passengers to check the National Rail Enquiries website before travelling.
Full line closures are necessary to ensure worker and public safety during the works. The disruption forms part of Network Rail's broader programme to modernise Britain's ageing railway infrastructure.
Passengers should expect longer journey times and consider alternative travel arrangements. Details of specific service changes, including replacement buses and revised timetables, are available from train operators.
Network Rail has apologised for the inconvenience but stressed the long-term benefits the upgrades will deliver for future passengers.