Network Rail is to begin electrification works on the Severn and Patchway tunnels in South Gloucestershire.

The project forms part of Network Rail's £40 billion Railway Upgrade Plan in preparation for the arrival of new electric trains.

Works involve installing conductor beams to power the new fleet of electric trains. In the Severn tunnel, four tonnes of soot needs to be removed and extensive improvements made to the brick work.

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In addition, new track will be lowered in the Patchway tunnel and underneath Little Stoke Farm bridge to preserve its historical architecture.

As a result, both of the 130-year-old tunnels will be closed for six weeks, from 12 September to 21 October.

Anthea Dolman-Gair, Network Rail's senior programme manager, said: "The work around Patchway, Filton and Pilning is an essential part of our Railway Upgrade Plan and will pave the way for electric trains and the benefits these will bring for residents and passengers."

An informational event for local residents will take place at 7pm in Patchway Community College on Thursday, 16 June.

(LM/MH)