Widespread Rail Delays and Cancellations Hit Hard Due to Kings Norton Signalling Fault
A significant signalling fault in the Kings Norton area has led to widespread rail delays and cancellations impacting the West Midlands rail network. Affected routes include services running between Birmingham New Street and various destinations, including Redditch, Bromsgrove, and Cheltenham Spa.
Impact on Services
Passengers have reported delays of up to 30 minutes, along with several cancellations and changes to timetables. Key services affected include:
- CrossCountry trains between Nottingham and Cardiff Central.
- West Midlands Railway routes between Birmingham New Street and Worcester Shrub Hill, Hereford, Bromsgrove, and Lichfield Trent Valley.
- Direct services from Four Oaks to Redditch.
Duration of Disruption
The disturbances are anticipated to persist until midday on Wednesday, November 12th. CrossCountry services may be diverted through Kidderminster, bypassing University station.
Passenger Advisory
West Midlands Railway has advised against travel on affected routes. Notably, services between Birmingham New Street and both Redditch and Bromsgrove are completely halted in both directions. However, passengers who drove to stations along these routes can use their tickets later in the day to return to their vehicles.
Replacement Services
Rail replacement services are currently operating on the following routes:
- Longbridge to Bromsgrove/Redditch
- Bromsgrove to Worcester Foregate Street
It is important for passengers to note that these replacement vehicles may experience higher-than-usual demand and to allow for additional travel time.
Recommended Alternative Services
CrossCountry has suggested that affected passengers may use their tickets for the following alternatives without incurring extra charges:
- Great Western Railway services, including routes from Worcester Foregate Street to Worcestershire Parkway, and Bristol Temple Meads.
- Transport for Wales services between Cheltenham Spa and Cardiff Central.
- West Midlands Railway services between Birmingham Moor Street and Worcester Foregate Street.
- Northern and TransPennine Express services via any reasonable route.
Passengers are strongly encouraged to check with their operators for any changes before traveling.
