Rail passengers and freight operators are being advised of significant engineering works set to affect services on the West Coast Main Line between Rugby and Stafford from Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June 2025. The nine-day line closure is part of a programme of infrastructure upgrades by Network Rail, aimed at improving reliability and long-term resilience of this critical stretch of railway.
The works will see multiple engineering interventions carried out along the Trent Valley section, which forms a vital link between London Euston and Scotland. During this time, no direct train services will operate between Rugby and Stafford. Passengers are urged to plan ahead, with rail replacement services and diverted train routes in place.
Scope of Work
Network Rail engineers will undertake several key upgrades during the possession:
- Installation of new track and ballast near Atherstone.
- Waterproofing works on the River Anker bridge near Tamworth to mitigate future weather-related risks.
- Stabilisation of an embankment between the Great Haywood and Shugborough Conservation Area and Cannock Chase to protect infrastructure during adverse conditions.
- Repairs to the footbridge at Rugeley Trent Valley station.
These works form part of long-term efforts to ensure continued reliability of passenger and freight services on one of the UK’s most heavily used main lines.
Travel Disruption and Alternatives
During the closure, services operated by Avanti West Coast and London Northwestern Railway will be significantly impacted:
- Avanti West Coast will not operate services between Rugby and Stafford via Nuneaton. Replacement buses will run between Coventry and Nuneaton. Services to and from Holyhead will run between Crewe and Holyhead only.
- London Northwestern Railway will replace trains with buses between Rugby and Stafford. Services between London Euston/Northampton and Crewe will operate only as far as Rugby. Passengers travelling north of Rugby should use alternative services between Stafford and Crewe.
Passengers are encouraged to check journey planners and operator websites in advance, and allow additional time when travelling.
Operator Statements
Gary Walsh, route director for Network Rail’s West Coast South division, stated:
“Our essential improvements between Stafford and Rugby will help to deliver a smoother and more reliable railway for passengers and freight services.”
Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director at London Northwestern Railway, added:
“Rail replacement buses will be in place… Please allow for extra time when you travel or consider alternative transport where possible.”
Chris Liptrot, operations director at Avanti West Coast, advised:
“We’ll be operating an amended timetable… We strongly advise customers to plan ahead and check the Avanti West Coast website before travelling.”
