WORK to upgrade the line between Swindon and Kemble has been completed over the bank holiday weekend.

The £45million infrastructure upgrade included the reinstatement of the second line between Swindon and Kemble, improvements to earthworks to accommodate the new track, and the installation of new signalling equipment.

Network Rail expects these upgrades to lead to greater capacity and reduced journey times on the route but First Great Western confirmed that no new trains are planned to be added to the route.

These improvements will also enable trains from south Wales to be diverted along this route when Bristol Parkway station and the Severn Tunnel are closed for electrification work.

Network Rail’s route programme and project sponsor Simon Maple said: “Now that our work is complete, passengers can look forward to fewer delays and reduced journey times in the future.

“It also means we can minimise the disruption caused by our electrification work and ensure the region gets maximum benefit from a modern, electric railway.”

First Great Western General Manager Central Rob Mullin said: “These are vital infrastructure works to help pave the way for increased capacity and reduced journey times, and better performance and punctuality that electrification and new electric trains will bring for future services."