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Friday, March 29, 2024

Train derailment causes travel chaos

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Update: The Up and Down Slow lines have been re-opened and Network Rail are working to restore full service on the fast lines as ‘soon as possible’.

A locomotive derailed at Bletchley on the West Coast Main Line last night.

The train caused travel chaos for commuters this morning as no trains can run between Milton Keynes and London.

The derailed unit is currently blocking the lines and has caused ‘significant damage’ to the infrastructure in the area.

Train operators affected include Virgin Trains, Southern and London Midland.

The Freightliner locomotive, operated by and leased to Virgin Trains, derailed at Bletchley south junction around 02:30 this morning.

The driver is reportedly being treated for his injuries.

Robin Gisby, Network Rail managing director, network operations, said:

“Unfortunately there is quite substantial damage to the tracks and overhead lines following this morning’s incident.

“Our engineers have been on site since the small hours to assist investigators and are now carrying out repairs to the tracks and overhead lines which have been damaged.

“We hope to have two of the four lines open by the early afternoon, though it is likely that severe disruption will continue for the remainder of the day as we work to repair the more significant damage.”

Virgin Trains and Network Rail are working with RAIB as they continue their investigation.

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