ELECTRIFICATION of the Great Western line is progressing, with rail users now seeing signs of the work taking shape.

Electrical equipment has gone up on the line near TK Maxx, in Great Western Way.

And a Network Rail spokesman said the work to bring the line up to date was currently on time.

“Our work to electrify the railway through Swindon and Wiltshire is progressing well,” he said.

“We have completed a number of essential bridge reconstructions in the county and next week will start the process of removing the redundant metal footbridge that links Swindon station with Polaris House to make room for the installation of electrification equipment.

“This equipment is necessary to power the new fleet of electric trains that will run underneath.

“These trains have benefits for passengers and those who live close to the railway, including reduced journey times and services that are more comfortable, smoother, quieter and greener.”

The work between London and Bristol, including Newbury and Oxford, will be completed by 2016, with the route to Cardiff electrified by 2017.