Smoother and more reliable train journeys in Devon and Cornwall is the goal of vital improvement works that Network Rail is to carry out. Engineers will begin this year's programme of annual track maintenance and renewals on West Country branch lines later this month. This crucial investment in the quality of services in the region, is part of Network Rail's commitment to provide a safe and reliable railway for passengers.

Work begins on Monday 12 February on the Exmouth Branch line (Avocet Line) for two days involving the replacement of rails, timbers and sleepers. Replacement bus services will be running during the closure of the line.
Greg Lunn, Network Rail’s Territory Maintenance Director for the area, said: "As the owner and operator of the rail network in Britain, we are committed to ensuring the safe running of the railway. This important annual maintenance work forms part of our investment to improve the railway in the area. We will do our utmost to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum."

Further line closures scheduled include (Monday – Friday):
Paignton Branch (Riviera Line)
19 – 23 February
Barnstaple Branch (Tarka Line)
26 February – 2 March
Barnstaple Branch (Tarka Line)
5 - 9 March
Newquay Branch (Atlantic Coast Line)
12 – 16 March
19 – 23 March
St. Ives Branch (St Ives Bay Line)
26 – 30 March
Looe Branch (Looe Valley Line)
2 – 6 April
Newquay Branch (Atlantic Coast Line)
23 – 25 April
30 April – 4 May

Julian Crow, First Great Western's Regional Manager, said: "Naturally we regret any difficulties this may cause to our passengers, but this work really is vital to keep the branch lines in excellent condition for many years to come.
"We always make every possible effort to minimise impact on our customers’ travel plans, however due to the scale of the works being undertaken it makes it impossible to avoid disruption to our services."

During these line closures, bus replacement services will be provided and details of these services will be available at stations. Customers are advised to always check journey details with the National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 and www.nationalrail.co.uk before travelling.