Staines to Windsor improvement work
We’re upgrading the railway between Staines and Windsor, improving reliability for passengers
We will be returning this autumn to continue upgrading the Staines to Windsor line, making journeys safer, smoother and more reliable. To complete this package of essential renewals, the line between Staines and Windsor & Eton Riverside will be closed.
When is the work is taking place?
The line between Staines and Windsor & Eton Riverside will be closed From Saturday 25 October and reopen to passengers on Saturday 1 November 2025.
How your journey is affected
While the railway is closed, South Western Railway (SWR) will operate rail replacement bus services.
These will run up to twice an hour between Staines and Windsor, calling at Wraysbury, Sunnymeads and Datchet, with some direct services between Staines and Windsor also in place.
Passengers should allow extra time for their journeys, as bus journeys will take longer than usual.
What work is taking place and where?
Across the line, a wide programme of renewal and maintenance will be delivered. At Wraysbury, more than a kilometre of rail will be replaced and the track bed stabilised. At Datchet Level Crossing, the road surface is being renewed alongside drainage improvements to provide a smoother, more reliable surface. Insulated rail joints will also be replaced or removed at several sites, strengthening the reliability of the signalling system.
Bridges and structures
Work is also taking place on two major structures. At Colne River Bridge in Wraysbury, 20 wheel timbers are being renewed. At Black Potts Viaduct near Windsor, 15 wheel timbers will be replaced, alongside new fixtures, holding straps and walkways. These improvements are essential to keep trains running safely and reliably across the structures for years to come.
Maintenance and safety improvements
In addition to the larger projects, we are using this closure to complete smaller but important maintenance tasks. Vegetation will be cleared and drainage improved along sections of the route, helping to protect the railway from flooding and heavy rainfall. Repairs are being carried out at several level crossings, including Datchet & Mays, Moor Farm and Riffold footpath, to address potholes, cattle grids and drainage. Routine checks of signalling, telecoms and electrical assets will also take place to keep equipment in safe working order.
Road and level crossing impacts
For local residents and drivers, Datchet Level Crossing will be closed overnight at times during the work. Signed diversions will be in place, and we advise allowing extra time for road journeys during this period.
Why we are doing this
Delivering this work as part of a single seven-day closure allows us to complete multiple jobs at once, rather than closing the railway on repeated weekends. This means less overall disruption for passengers and neighbours while ensuring the line is upgraded to modern standards. Safety, reliability and long-term resilience are at the heart of this programme, and we thank passengers and local communities for their patience while the work takes place.
Contact us
For questions about the work or travel advice, please see our contact us page or call our 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 4.1