Deutsche Bahn to close Sauerland line for bridge renovations, extending disruptions to 2027

From early July, Deutsche Bahn will impose a four‑week closure on the Sauerland railway between Fröndenberg and Meschede, with buses replacing RE17 and RE57 services until 12 July. Passengers are expected to spend roughly twice as long on their journeys, according to a railway spokesperson.

The initial phase focuses on repairing a bridge in Meschede, refurbishing the ballast at Wickede and carrying out tunnel work. After the summer pause, construction will resume in February 2027 and continue through the end of the year, with the entire programme stretched to late 2027. Two bridges at Meschede and Neheim‑Hüsten are slated for renewal by 30 July, followed by further bridge demolition and replacement in Fröndenberg from August onward. The extensive schedule aims to allow safe, uninterrupted work periods, but detailed passenger impact assessments are still underway.