Severn Tunnel re-opens after six-week closure

The Severn Tunnel has re-opened after a six-week closure by Network Rail to complete electrification work.

The 130-year-old tunnel has been closed off since September 12 to prepare the line for a new fleet of electric trains.

The work has added 35 minutes to journeys through West to and from London Paddington and towards Wales with diversions via Gloucester and other routes.

Network Rail says electrification will mean more seats and faster, more reliable journeys for passengers.

Network Rail says the six-week closure will be worth it in the long-term. Credit: Network Rail

Great Western Railway Managing Director Mark Hopwood said:

Electrification work will be completed in 2019. Credit: Network Rail

During the work Network Rail installed overhead lines to power GWR’s new Intercity Express Trains.

The trains will begin to enter service on some routes from next summer, with Network Rail expected to complete electrification of the line between London Paddington to Cardiff by 2019.

Great Western have named a new train in honour of the re-opening of the tunnel - the 0728 service from Swansea to Paddington will now be called Y Cymro - the Welshman.