The UK’s Network Rail (NR) is carrying out upgrade work at level crossings between Wrexham and Chester in order to provide a safer and more reliable railway for passengers and communities on the north Wales border.

The upgrade project will ultimately see four crossings upgraded from half-barriers to full-barriers.

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The work is part of a Welsh Government-funded project to allow for more frequent and faster journeys for passengers between north and south Wales.

The upgrades are part of Network Rail’s commitment to either close or make crossings safer across the entire country.

"We are working to improve capacity and reduce journey times by laying down extra track and undertaking work to improve line-speed."

NR noted that as part of the ongoing works to the level crossings, it is necessary to temporarily close the roads on which the level crossings are located at Broad Oak, near Rossett, and Balderton.

During the works, the Balderton level crossing will be closed from 15 to 29 August, while the Broad Oak level crossing will be closed from 15 August to 5 September.

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The local authorities and Network Rail have worked closely regarding the diversionary routes, which will be clearly signposted.

Later this year, there will be further road closures to allow all four level crossings to be fully commissioned.

Network Rail Wales route enhancement manager James Jackson said: "Passenger demand between north and south Wales has significantly increased in the last decade.

"We are working to improve capacity and reduce journey times by laying down extra track and undertaking work to improve line-speed."

The project, which will improve journeys between north Wales and Cardiff, includes track work to increase line speeds, as well as the addition of a second track between Wrexham and Chester.

The work will also involve moving the existing track across and laying new track alongside it.

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