South West Property Stephen Farrell

Platforms at Bristol Temple Meads are set to be upgraded and extended to prepare the way for a new fleet of trains.

Great Western Railway (GWR)’s new fleet of diesel-electric trains are longer than the existing high speed trains and will require additional platform length to allow passengers to get on and off the trains safely.

Network Rail will undertake the work alongside other improvements, including signalling renewals and the installation of new lighting.

Michelle Scogings, senior programme development manager for Network Rail, said: "I would like to thank passengers in advance for their patience as we undertake this work to accommodate the new fleet of Intercity Express Trains at Bristol Temple Meads as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan.

"Passengers will see the benefits from this work in the autumn as the new trains come into service, providing a vital capacity boost, as well as more space for passengers and their luggage."