Land slip causes extensive damage to Severn Valley Railway in Shropshire

A significant landslip has struck the Severn Valley Railway (SVR), causing extensive damage to a section of track between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade.

The slip occurred approximately 300 meters north of Sterns, a section of the 16-mile line that has been prone to previous issues, though this specific area was not previously flagged as a concern.

The damage, affecting approximately 30 meters of track and the underlying track bed, has rendered the line impassable between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade stations.

SVR Head of Infrastructure, Chris Bond, who inspected the site, described the situation as a "significant embankment failure" and warned of the potential for further slippage. "This will be a major infrastructure repair project that will take considerable time and money," he confirmed.

The landslip presents a significant challenge to the SVR, which was due to reopen on February 15th for the start of its 2025 season. While services between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade will still operate, the crucial link to Bridgnorth is severed.

SVR Managing Director, Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster, acknowledged the impact of the landslip.

"We’re due to reopen on 15 February for half-term and the start of our 2025 season, but clearly services between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade cannot run," he stated. He assured pre-booked passengers that they will be contacted via email regarding their reservations and urged them not to call the railway directly.

Dunster also highlighted the financial implications of the repair work. "This is the last thing we needed," he admitted, noting the railway's recent efforts to stabilise its finances after several years of struggles.

"Inevitably, we’re going to have to find the funds to pay for this essential repair, and would welcome all the help that we can get." He encouraged those wishing to support the SVR to donate to the SVR Resilience Fund at svr.co.uk.

The railway is now facing a race against time and a significant funding challenge to restore full operations. The area remains in a dangerous state and further slippage may occur people are being warned to stay away from the area.