Rail services resume across the majority Wales and Borders following Storm Goretti
Network Rail and Transport for Wales teams continue to work around the clock to clear lines, inspect infrastructure and restore services safely following Storm Goretti.
Storm Goretti brought severe conditions across the Wales and Borders route, including frozen points, compacted snow on tracks, fallen trees and power failures in multiple locations. While some lines were not directly affected, services were altered and sections of the network were temporarily closed as part of a safety-led approach, in line with Met Office advice.
While many routes have now reopened, passengers are advised that there will be residual impacts to services throughout the rest of Friday as teams continue recovery work and safely return the network to full operation. Some services will be delayed, amended or cancelled at short notice.
Passengers are strongly advised to check before travelling as some disruption may continue throughout Friday 9 January, as recovery work continues. Disruption on the Heart of Wales line and between Shrewsbury and Birmingham is expected to continue into Saturday 10 January.
Up to date information on rail services can be found at https://tfw.wales/service-status/all-updates.
Network Rail teams remain on the ground clearing remaining snow, removing debris, repairing faults and carrying out inspections.
Nick Millington, Route Director for Network Rail Wales and the Borders, said, “Storm Goretti brought extremely challenging conditions across the route, including heavy snow, high winds and freezing temperatures, which resulted in issues in several locations. Our teams worked tirelessly through Thursday night, and will continue throughout Friday, to clear lines, repair damage and inspect the railway so services can restart safely.
“While much of the network is now reopening, there will be some ongoing disruption today as we complete recovery work and return the railway to full service. I’d like to thank passengers for their patience and our colleagues and partners for their hard work in very difficult conditions.”
Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales added, "We're pleased to be restoring services following Storm Goretti, and we'd like to thank our colleagues and passengers for their understanding.
“Please continue to check before you travel and allow extra time for your journey. Take care when travelling to and from stations as some surfaces may still be slippery."
Rail tickets for Thursday 8 January remain valid for travel up to Sunday 11 January.
