THE Conwy Valley railway line is to be closed for more than three weeks to complete work started earlier this year.

The line will be closed between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog from 9.30pmm on Friday November 22 until 10:30am on Sunday 15 December 15. Arrangements for a bus replacement service are is currently being finalised.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: “This work is the second phase of a major upgrade delivered this year and includes the installation of 600 rock bolts in the Ffestiniog Tunnel, the replacement of sleepers along the line and vegetation management.

“Work will also continue to replace the flood damaged platform at Dolgarrog station, which remains closed.

The line was initially closed in March, following extreme weather that washed out ballast and damaged infrastructure over a six-mile stretch. Work during this phase included the removal of 8,000 tonnes of wash out materials, the installation of additional culverts and over 7,500 tonnes of ‘rock armour’ to improve flood resilience. The line was reopened in time for the National Eisteddfod in August.”

Cllr Philip C Evans, chairman of the Conwy Valley Railway partnership, added:

“The planned closures are essential for the continued maintenance and resilience of the line. This is really good news which will be greatly welcomed by the partnership for the long-term investment for passengers using the line.”

Bill Kelly, Network Rail’s route director for Wales and Borders, said: “We know this is a hugely important rail link for tourism and the local economy and this work will help future proof the line: reducing unplanned closures and disruption.”

Two drop-in events have been organised for the public to explain the reasons for the closure. They will held on Tuesday November5 at Glasdir Conference and Meeting Hall, Llanrwst, between 3pm and 6.30om and on Wednesday November 6 at Ffestiniog Town Council, 5 High Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog, between 3pm and 6pm. Members of the project team will be on hand to answer questions.