THE leader of North Somerset Council, Cllr Mike Bell, has warned residents of some upcoming disruptions to train travel in the region.

Posting on Facebook, Cllr Bell said: “From Saturday 20 until Sunday January 28, as well as the weekend of Saturday 3 and Sunday February 4, Network Rail will be working to refurbish a crucial railway junction on the southern end of Bristol Temple Meads station.

“This involves working 24/7 to replace sections of the track and points, using special road rail diggers and an engineering train.

“The refurbishment is needed to ensure the continued safe and reliable running of the railway. The junction will need to be fully replaced at a future date to be confirmed.

“Travel implications:

From Saturday 20 until Sunday January 28 and on Saturday 3 and Sunday February 4, no trains will run between Bristol Temple Meads and Weston-super-Mare stations, however train services will still run directly between Bristol Temple Meads and Taunton, via an alternative route, adding around 55 minutes to journey times.

“Replacement buses are planned between Bristol Temple Meads, Nailsea & Backwell, Yatton, Worle, Weston Milton and Weston-super-Mare.

“Please note that no replacement buses will stop at Bedminster or Parson Street – passengers are asked to use public service buses for these locations.”