TRAINS will not run between Stourbridge Junction and Birmingham for the next six Sundays while work to a historic tunnel is carried out.

A rail replacement bus will instead run each Sunday, starting from January 12 to February 16.

The alteration is in place while National Rail works to strengthen and repair the historic Old Hill tunnel in Rowley Regis, which runs for 819 metres along the Stourbridge to Snow Hill line.

The two million pound project will see National Rail repair brickwork, strengthen the structure of the tunnel, carry out waterproofing work and improve the lining of the tunnel.

A rail replacement bus will run on Sundays at stops along the line, operated by West Midlands Trains and the shuttle service between Stourbridge Town and Stourbridge Junction will run as normal.

Richard Brooks, head of customer experience for West Midlands Railway, said: “We thank our passengers for their patience while Network Rail carries out this essential maintenance work which will ultimately help improve reliability on this important route.

“Replacement bus services will be in place on each affected Sunday calling at all stations between Birmingham Snow Hill and Stourbridge Junction. Services between Stourbridge Town and Stourbridge Junction will run as normal. Trains between Stourbridge and Worcestershire will operate to an amended timetable and passengers are advised to check their journeys before travelling.”