Bochum main station closed until the end of October: All information about replacement services!

Bochum main station closed until the end of October: All information about replacement services!

Bochum main station will remain closed until October 31, 2025 due to extensive construction work. How Ruhr24 reported, the lockdown was put into effect on September 5, 2025 at 9 p.m. During this period, train traffic is severely restricted and Bochum Central Station loses all long-distance train stops. Travelers must prepare for significant changes.

The regional express lines, such as the RE 1 and RE 6, do not stop at Bochum main station, and numerous other connections are also affected. Particularly annoying: Long-distance trains, including the popular ICE and IC, are being rerouted, resulting in travel times being extended by up to 20 minutes. The Bochum Journal adds that a replacement bus service will be set up to run between Essen and Dortmund, with other stops in Bochum also served.

Replacement traffic and diversions

Buses are available as replacement transport for everyone on the way to their destination. These run during the week and on weekends between Dortmund Hbf and Essen-Steele Ost. The replacement service also stops at the following stops:

• Universitätsstraße (Fahrtrichtung Essen)
• Buddenbergplatz/Ferdinandstraße (Fahrtrichtung Dortmund und Witten)

In the evenings, the bus service is even extended to Hamm (Westf.) Hbf. The DB has published all changes in the online timetable, and the Rhine-Ruhr Transport Association (VRR) provides a link list with replacement timetables.

Construction projects and infrastructure improvements

The reason for the closure is extensive construction work to improve the infrastructure. This includes rail changes, switch maintenance and noise insulation measures. Particular attention is being paid to expanding the Rhine-Ruhr Express (RRX), which is intended to ensure a faster and more comfortable connection. In addition, new bridge parts will be installed on the Wittener Straße railway bridge and various switches at Bochum main station will be replaced, such as this Bochum Journal described in detail.

In order to make the change easier for travelers, Deutsche Bahn employees will be available at the train stations in Dortmund, Essen and Bochum to answer questions about replacement services. It remains to be hoped that the construction work will go according to plan and that travelers will soon be able to benefit from an attractive rail service again.