Feltham to Barnes Upgrade Work
We’re upgrading the 129 years old Barnes Bridge and renewing track on the Hounslow loop during the line closure in late July.
Project timeline
Our engineers will be working on the line from Sunday 28 July to Friday 2 August.
What work is taking place?
During the closure, we’ll be replacing all 48 solid wooden blocks that support the track across the Grade II listed structure. These blocks, known as wheel timbers, will be replaced with a more sustainable, weather resistant material.
Our engineers will also be installing new baseplates, which connect the tracks to the sleepers, and improving the alignment of the tracks approaching and leaving the bridge.
As part of this closure, we’ll renew 1.4km of conductor rail, the electric rail that powers the trains, between South Acton and Brentford. Maintenance teams will be replacing track between Isleworth and Hounslow and working on the electrified rail between Kew Bridge and Chiswick.
When is the work taking place?
Our teams will be working around the clock from Sunday 28 July to Friday 2 August to get this work done.
How will this work affect me?
During this closure, buses will replace some South Western Railway services between Barnes and Feltham. Buses will operate as per the below:
- Sunday 28 July – Buses will replace trains between Barnes and Feltham via Hounslow
- Monday 29 July to Friday 2 August – Buses replace trains between Barnes and Kew Bridge only. Trains will run to and from Kew Bridge to Feltham.
Why is the work needed?
We are doing this work because many of the current wheel timbers are old and no longer fit for purpose. By renewing the wheel timbers with lighter, more weather resistant blocks, we are creating a better more sustainable railway, as the new blocks last 30 years longer than the current blocks. The better durability means we expend less CO2 maintaining them throughout their 50 year lives.
The better durability also means fewer weekend closures for passengers whilst the blocks are maintained, as will completing all of this work over the course of one week.
Renewing the conductor rail between South Acton and Brentford will also mean more reliable journeys for passengers in the area as new equipment is less prone to faults.
Contact us
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.