Network Rail are to shut the line between Chorley and the junction of the West Coast mainline at Euxton, from Saturday July 19th to Sunday, August 31st.
First TransPennine Express services between Manchester and Blackpool North, Barrow-in-Furness and Windermere are to be diverted and as such will not stop at either Chorley or Buckshaw Parkway stations.
A temporary bus services will operate between Chorley and Preston, and Chorley and Bolton, with some buses stopping at Buckshaw Parkway .
The closure of the line in Chorley is necessary to prepare the track in readiness for the electricfication of the railway which is due to become operational by December 2016.
Some of the work will occur at the Chorley Tunnel , which will require significant changes to accommodate the overhead line equipment. The reinstatement of Chorley’s historic Flying Arches, which were removed in 2008 for restoration as part of £7m improvements is to take place during this time.
Your Conservative councillors have expressed disappointment that following all the investment into the new Buckshaw Parkway it could not remain open, with at least a train service operating to Preston. Especially as the village station is attracting large numbers of commuters who use the park and ride service.
The line closure has been planned to be kept as short as possible. Both Chorley Council and Lancashire County Council have been involved in the consultation.