Network Rail has released a picture of the derailed freight train that has caused significant rail disruption in Wolverhampton. The incident occurred yesterday evening (Tuesday, 5 May) at approximately 8:30 PM in the Oxley area, involving a single wagon of a freight train that derailed at low speed.
Damage and Disruption
The derailment resulted in damage to the track and overhead power lines, leading to no trains running between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury. West Midlands Railway is operating a shuttle service between Shrewsbury and Telford to mitigate the impact. Transport for Wales (TfW) has been forced to terminate all services at Shrewsbury, with buses replacing trains between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton. The line between Wolverhampton and Stafford remains open but may experience service alterations.
Network Rail Statement
Network Rail confirmed there were no injuries, the derailed wagon remained upright, and no other trains were involved. In a statement, they said: "The complexities of removing the derailed wagon and making the significant repairs means disruption will last until the end of today (Wednesday, 6 May) and most likely into Thursday, 7 May. Passengers should check before they travel for the latest information until the railway has fully reopened."
Adam Checkley, Network Rail's Central route infrastructure director, added: "This was a low-speed derailment involving one wagon of a freight train, but it has still caused significant disruption to passengers and extensive damage to the track and overhead power lines. Our priority is to assess the damage, make repairs as quickly and safely as possible, and reopen the railway as soon as we can. I want to thank everyone for their patience while we do this and would urge anyone planning to travel through Wolverhampton, and especially to or from Shrewsbury, to check before they travel for the latest information."
Investigation Underway
Network Rail is collaborating with train operators to maintain passenger services and with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) to determine the cause of the derailment. Passengers are advised to check travel updates regularly until the railway fully reopens.
