NEARLY one mile of railway track will be replaced next weekend. 

Network Rail said the work on the approach to Lymington Pier will help improve reliability and reduce the number of faults on the line. 

Engineers will be on site between Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, November 3 with buses replacing trains. 

The new track will also be treated by a specialist Land Rover able to travel both on the road and the railway – known as a Sand Rover.  

This vehicle will drive along the tracks and apply a sticky sand-like gel to help trains grip the tracks during wet and slippery conditions. 

Engineers will also begin the first of a two-stage programme of work to improve the viaduct which runs over the river between Lymington town and Lymington Pier.  

This will include improving the durability of the structure as well as carrying out preventative works to make sure the viaduct continues to safely carry passengers over Lymington river into the future. 

This second phase of this work will be completed from December 21 to January 5 during a two-week closure. 

Mark Goodall, Network Rail Wessex route director, said: “During this time, the railway between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier will be closed, and a rail replacement bus service will be in operation to allow our engineers to safely complete their work.  

“We’re working closely with our train operator partner South Western Railway and Wightlink Ferry company to ensure passengers can continue their journeys.” 

A South Western Railway spokesman added: “We’re advising customers to check before travelling. Buses will replace trains, calling at Lymington town. 

“Customers should also note that there will be a closure between Southampton Central and Brockenhurst on the first weekend of the closure, again with buses replacing trains.  

“We’re sorry for the disruption that this will cause and would encourage customers to check before travelling.”