NORTH Wiltshire MP James Gray has met Network Rail bosses to discuss the road closures around Royal Wootton Bassett and Lyneham.

The bridge at Dauntsey’s Lock and Skew Bridge will both be closed over the next few months to allow Network Rail to carry out the electrification of the line.

In reaction to the closures many motorists have been using several rural roads to avoid the delays, prompting Wiltshire Council to close them.

Business owners in Lyneham complained they had been left isolated and have asked for compensation from the rail firm, which said they was no legal basis for such a claim.

Mr Gray said: “I wanted to raise the multiple road and bridge closures that have resulted from the works, which are causing difficulty for my constituents.

“Network Rail acknowledged many of the challenges including disruption to lives and businesses and the risk of isolating communities.

“I remain supportive of the electrification project which will deliver more reliable and more comfortable journeys for passengers, as well as contributing to our green targets.”