Train services on the Lymington branch line have resumed following a week-long closure for essential track upgrades.

Network Rail's team of engineers replaced almost a mile of track between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier.

The improvements are expected to significantly improve reliability and reduce the number of faults.

The new track has been treated by a specialist Land Rover able to travel both on the road and the railway – known as a Sand Rover – which applied a sticky sand.

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This treatment is designed to help trains grip the tracks during wet and slippery conditions.

There is also a coating on the new rails reducing the speed at which the new rails corrode, helping improve their longevity, which is particularly useful in this coastal environment.

Due to the complex nature of the works, a second closure will be necessary to make improvements to the viaduct over the Lymington River.

This phase of work will see the railway closed from December 21, 2024, until January 6, 2025.

The enhancements aim to boost the durability of the structure, ensuring the viaduct continues to carry passengers safely and reliably over the Lymington River.

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Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex route director, said: "We appreciate passengers’ patience during this period and are sorry for any inconvenience caused by the work.

"This maintenance was crucial for the continued safe and reliable operation of the Lymington branch line.

"Throughout the project, we worked closely with our train operator partner, South Western Railway, and Wightlink Ferry company to ensure passengers could continue their journeys seamlessly.

"We will maintain close collaboration with our partners to ensure the Christmas closure also runs smoothly."

A South Western Railway (SWR) spokesperson added: "We are pleased to see the line between Brockenhurst and Lymington Pier reopen, restoring both connectivity for our customers in Lymington and the link with the Isle of Wight.

"The follow-up closure in December and early January is one of a number of engineering projects on our network over the Christmas period, so we’d like to take this opportunity to encourage customers to plan ahead."