Network Rail is advising passengers to check before travelling later this month, as services will be disrupted as it replaces more than 10,000 wires in Gloucester signal box.

From Saturday 27 September until Sunday 5 October, Network Rail workers will be completing a vital upgrade of the signal box. They will replace twelve miles of wiring.

The signalling system at Gloucester controls train movements between Bristol, Worcester, Swindon and South Wales. It was installed in the late 1960s, and some components need to be modernised and upgraded. Network Rail promises that this will ensure that train services can continue to operate reliably through the area.

No trains will stop at or travel through Gloucester station while the upgrade takes place. Buses will replace trains at several stations in the region.

Saturday 27 September, Sunday 28 September, Saturday 4 October and Sunday 5 October

Impacted routes:

• Cheltenham Spa to Gloucester and Lydney
• Worcester Foregate Street to Gloucester
• Cheltenham Spa and Gloucester to Bristol Parkway
• Cheltenham Spa and Gloucester to Kemble (Saturdays) and Swindon (Sundays)

Monday 29 September to Friday 3 October

Impacted routes:

• Cheltenham Spa to Gloucester and Lydney
• Gloucester to Cam and Dursley
• Worcestershire Parkway to Ashchurch for Tewkesbury

Trains will continue to operate between Cheltenham Spa, Bristol Parkway and Swindon. However, they will not stop at Gloucester.

Gloucester station has recently undergone an upgrade, including improving visibility through its subway, introducing step-free access, and enhancing car parking provision.

“This signalling work is important because these signals control all train movements in and out of Gloucester station as well as the wider area.

“On weekdays, trains can still operate between Cheltenham Spa and Bristol Parkway or Swindon by avoiding Gloucester, but not on weekends.

“During this period, train operators including GWR, CrossCountry and Transport for Wales will provide rail replacement services for stations affected.

“As an alternative, valid rail tickets can also be used to travel on local bus services running in the area instead. Check our website for the details.

“It’s important though that customers are aware these alternative travel arrangements will make journey times much longer, so please plan ahead.”

Chloe Coglan, GWR station manager for the South Cotswolds