A major rail disruption is affecting services across parts of the West Midlands today (May 6) after a freight train derailment caused significant damage to infrastructure near Wolverhampton. According to West Midlands Railway, the incident occurred between Wolverhampton and Bilbrook, where a low-speed derailment blocked all lines and damaged overhead electric wires. Support structures holding the wires were also knocked down, rendering the route unsafe for trains.
Delays and Cancellations
As a result, there will be delays and cancellations on services between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton for the rest of the day. The disruption is affecting trains in both directions, with knock-on delays expected across the wider network. Repair work is anticipated to continue into Thursday, May 7, as engineers assess and fix the damage.
Emergency Timetable and Travel Advice
To assist passengers, a limited emergency timetable has been introduced. Shuttle train services are operating between Shrewsbury and Telford, as well as between Birmingham and Wolverhampton via alternative routes. Rail replacement buses are also running between Wolverhampton and Telford in both directions. Passengers travelling between Birmingham New Street and Shrewsbury are advised to change at Wolverhampton or Telford Central and continue their journey using replacement buses and modified train services.
Transport officials are urging people to check journey planners before travelling and consider delaying trips where possible. Customers delayed by 15 minutes or more may be eligible for compensation under the railway’s Delay Repay scheme.
