GWR and Network Rail have both issued video updates about the temporary closure of line between Oxford and Didcot due to subsidence at a bridge over the River Thames.
The closure means that trains on the Cotswold Line cannot run further than Oxford until further notice. The closure of the Nuneham Viaduct, between Radley and Culham, will continue until at least the end of May, according to an update on the National Rail Enquiries website on Easter Monday.
GWR managing directory Mark Hopwood has recorded a video about the situation.
⚠️Travel Update 05/04⚠️
For all of the latest information please visit https://t.co/nnt8t47xXC
Please check before you travel at https://t.co/zJ4QevKLCb pic.twitter.com/iT9UTOpsKo
— GWR (@GWRHelp) April 5, 2023
And Network Rail has issued a video about the problems at the site and what engineers are doing to decide how to repair the bridge and an adjacent abutment, that is affected by subsidence.
⚠️We are working hard to get the railway open again between Didcot Parkway and Oxford
🚧Nuneham Viaduct is unsafe for train traffic at this time and will be closed for some weeks – please check before you travel
📽️Watch below for more information: pic.twitter.com/pJvlU93HZC
— Network Rail Western (@networkrailwest) April 5, 2023
A near-normal GWR train service is continuing to operate between Oxford, Worcester, Great Malvern and Hereford, although there are some gaps at times, because a limited number trains are being diverted to run between London Paddington and Worcester Shrub Hill on the route via Stroud and Cheltenham.
Passengers should check train times before travelling using online journey planners or by calling National Rail Enquiries on 03457 484950.
Click here for travel updates from the GWR website about the situation and alternative routs that passengers with GWR tickets can use to travel between Cotswold Line stations and Reading or London.
Main picture: Network Rail Western