THE SEVERN Tunnel is set to re-open today after more than six weeks of maintenance works and disruption for commuters.

The electrification project, which started on Monday September 12 and led to the tunnel being closed for the longest period in its 130-year history, has prepared the tunnel for new fleet of state-of-the-art electric trains.

The work is expected to result in more seats and a faster, more reliable journey for passengers from when the first train passed through the reopened tunnel at 2am this morning (Saturday)

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns MP, said: "Modernising the Great Western Main Line is a top priority for this government and Network Rail’s outstanding team of engineers.

“The closure of the tunnel has been a challenge for many of us but it’s clear the benefits vastly outweigh this relatively short period. Faster and greener connectivity is vital to ensure that all roads lead to Wales and more than ever this country is open for business."

Over the course of the tunnel’s closure, journey times have increased by at least an extra 35 minutes from London to South Wales as rail routes have been diverted via Gloucestershire.

The electrification of the tunnels, and the line as a whole, is part of the UK government's rail upgrade plan.

Although the first train will be at 2am, that will be an empty train from Swansea traveling for maintenance work at First Great Western's Bristol depot.

This means the first passenger train going through the tunnel will be the 4.55am Cardiff to London Paddington service. On Monday morning, 59 trains will be travelling through the tunnel from South Wales to London, and vice versa.

Route managing director for Network Rail Wales, Andy Thomas, said: “We have delivered a major milestone in the delivery of electric trains to South Wales as part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan.

“As well as the significant long-term benefits of electrification including faster, greener, more frequent trains there will also be a boost to economic growth in South Wales thanks to better connectivity to and from London, a critical factor for attracting inward investment.”