Network Rail says a speed restriction of 40mph imposed on the Waterloo to Exeter line will end on Monday November 14th. The limit was brought in this summer at locations near Tisbury, Gillingham and Axminster, as the clay-based track bed shrank in the record-breaking hot and dry summer, leaving the rails uneven and too bumpy for trains to run at full speed. This caused significant disruption to services in August and required the introduction of a new temporary timetable between Salisbury and Exeter from early September.
The cause of the speed restrictions on the line is known a Soil Moisture Deficit and is caused by largely clay-based soils shrinking in hot and dry conditions as trees and other vegetation soaks the water from them. They shrink unevenly, meaning track laid on top loses its level profile. Engineers have made good progress in restoring the track levels, helped by cooler temperatures and regular rain which has stopped the track bed shrinking.
Network Rail says further improvement work will continue on the line for the next 18 months. Firstly, a nine-day closure between Salisbury and Yeovil Junction between 10th and 18th December will allow us to replace track in the Gillingham area. Making the most of the closure, engineers will also carry out station improvements at Gillingham and Sherborne; improve drainage in the Sherborne, Templecombe and Gillingham areas; perform track maintenance in the Gillingham and Sherborne areas; and remove graffiti and clear litter from the line at Salisbury.
Further closures are planned in November/December 2023 and March 2024, with the Axminster, Crewkerne, Templecombe and Gillingham areas all set to see improvement works.
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