2026 update for the Tondu-Margam line in Bridgend, South Wales. I have received this information via a FOI request to Network Rail, sharing for anyone interested in the future of this line.
'The Tondu- Margam branch line is not currently under a T3 possession. The line is operating under a Section C arrangement, where the line is closed by restricting the signaller’s authority to direct trains on to it. The difference between the two is that a possession is a short term closure for engineering work, whereas a Section C is a longer term arrangement providing a reversible closure of the route. Historically, the line was subject to a T3 possession for a number of years, during which it was closed to normal traffic. However, in 2024, the arrangements were revised. This change was made due to the operational and safety complexities associated with maintaining an active line possession.'
'The line was subject to a T3 possession on 22 June 2018. The line was then put under a section C on the 13 September 2024.'
'Mothballing3 is proposed via a Short Term Network Change for the immediate future. This proposal has not been formalised or agreed with Train Operating Companies (TOC) or Freight Operating Companies (FOC). However, it includes a commitment by us to reopen
the line within 12 months should a request be received from a TOC or FOC to operate regular services. The line is considered to be of strategic importance and is therefore unlikely to be permanently closed as it provides the only diversionary route for the SWM2 between Margam and Bridgend. Due to current capacity restraints, it is not suitable for use as a routine diversionary route to support engineering works on the main line. Its use would generally be limited to key services during major engineering work unless signalling
enhancements are delivered. The line is included within the Tondu resignalling scheme, which is currently proposed as a Control Period 8 (2029-2034)/ Funding Period 1 (CP8/FP1) item. Reopening of the line may form part of this resignalling programme if capacity is increased and if there is demand for services from Transport for Wales (TfW) or FOCs.'
'The Tondu- Margam branch line is not currently under a T3 possession. The line is operating under a Section C arrangement, where the line is closed by restricting the signaller’s authority to direct trains on to it. The difference between the two is that a possession is a short term closure for engineering work, whereas a Section C is a longer term arrangement providing a reversible closure of the route. Historically, the line was subject to a T3 possession for a number of years, during which it was closed to normal traffic. However, in 2024, the arrangements were revised. This change was made due to the operational and safety complexities associated with maintaining an active line possession.'
'The line was subject to a T3 possession on 22 June 2018. The line was then put under a section C on the 13 September 2024.'
'Mothballing3 is proposed via a Short Term Network Change for the immediate future. This proposal has not been formalised or agreed with Train Operating Companies (TOC) or Freight Operating Companies (FOC). However, it includes a commitment by us to reopen
the line within 12 months should a request be received from a TOC or FOC to operate regular services. The line is considered to be of strategic importance and is therefore unlikely to be permanently closed as it provides the only diversionary route for the SWM2 between Margam and Bridgend. Due to current capacity restraints, it is not suitable for use as a routine diversionary route to support engineering works on the main line. Its use would generally be limited to key services during major engineering work unless signalling
enhancements are delivered. The line is included within the Tondu resignalling scheme, which is currently proposed as a Control Period 8 (2029-2034)/ Funding Period 1 (CP8/FP1) item. Reopening of the line may form part of this resignalling programme if capacity is increased and if there is demand for services from Transport for Wales (TfW) or FOCs.'
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