Bournemouth to Dorchester Line Renewals

We’re making improvements to the railway between Bournemouth and Dorchester South so that passengers can enjoy a more reliable service into the future

Project timeline

Our engineers will be working from Saturday 15 to Friday 21 November 2025 in order to carry out a series of renewal works along the line.

What work is taking place?

During this closure we will be carrying out a series of works including:

  • Strengthening a railway embankment in Hamworthy
  • Renewing the footbridge at Branksome station
  • Improving the drainage at our railway sidings in Poole
  • Renewing wheeltimbers over the bridge on the River Frome
  • Replacing the footbridge at Wool station

When is the work taking place?

Our teams will be working around the clock to get this work done.

More information about exactly when we will be working and where will be provided to local residents in a letter.

How will this work affect me?

During this closure, buses will replace trains as follows:

  • Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November 2025—Buses replace trains between Bournemouth and Dorchester South
  • Monday 17 to Friday 21 November 2025—Buses replace trains between Poole and Dorchester South

Details of the frequency of services are below (where “bph” means buses per hour):

Saturday 15 November 2025

  • 1bph Bournemouth to Dorchester South – calling at Poole, Wareham and Wool
  • 1bph Bournemouth to Weymouth – calling at Poole, Wareham, Wool and Dorchester South
  • 1bph Bournemouth to Dorchester South – all stations
  • 1bph Bournemouth to Poole – calling at Branksome and Parkstone

Sunday 16 November 2025

  • 1bph Bournemouth to Poole – direct
  • 1bph Bournemouth to Weymouth – calling at all stations exc. Holton Heath
  • 1bph Bournemouth to Dorchester South – calling at Poole, Wareham and Wool

Monday 17 to Friday 21 November 2025

  • 2bph Poole to Dorchester South – calling at all stations

Why is the work needed?

We are completing this work to ensure the safe running of the railway into the future, improving its overall resilience.

I have a question about the project – how can I get in touch?

For more information or to get in touch with us, please contact us by visiting our contact us page or by calling our 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.