North Devon rail upgrades 'on track' as major engineering work continues

Network Rail has confirmed that essential track renewals on the North Devon line are currently “on track” to finish on schedule on Sunday, March 29. 

Engineers are halfway through an intensive eight-day maintenance window affecting services between Exeter and Barnstaple, as well as the Okehampton route. The work, which began on Saturday 21 March, is designed to improve safety and eventually allow for higher train speeds.

The project is focused on two key locations: Chenson and the stretch between Barnstaple and Taw. A team of 80 workers is operating around the clock, supported by specialist "Road Rail" diggers and tamping trains.

By the time the line reopens on Monday 30 March, the team will have installed:

• 2.7km of brand-new track
• 4,236 sleepers
• 3,000 tonnes of ballast (the stone that supports the rails)

A spokesperson for Network Rail told the North Devon Gazette: “Yes, we are currently on track with this work.”

Network Rail says it is “making the most of the opportunity” while the line is closed to carry out a “spring clean” of the infrastructure.

Beyond the rail replacement, teams are clearing drainage systems, managing lineside vegetation, and conducting structural surveys on viaducts and bridges. These checks are vital for the long-term reliability of the rural branch line, which has seen a surge in popularity since the reopening of the Dartmoor Line to Okehampton.

Passengers are being reminded that replacement buses will continue to operate via Crediton until the end of the day on Sunday.

To help ease the journey, Great Western Railway (GWR) has confirmed that valid rail tickets are being accepted on several local bus routes, including:

• Stagecoach services: 5, 5A, 5B, and 5C
• Dartline service: 66

Warning for Sunday travelers: On Sunday 29 March, additional maintenance will mean buses also replace trains between Exeter St Davids and Tiverton Parkway until midday.

Mainline services from Exeter St Davids remain largely unaffected, though a reduced service is in operation to Exeter Central. Passengers are advised to check their journey times online before traveling.