Emergency Incident Forces Rail Closure Between Crewe and Warrington

An incident requiring the attendance of emergency services has brought rail traffic to a standstill between Crewe and Runcorn, affecting services through Warrington Bank Quay. While emergency crews carry out their work, all lines in the area remain closed, leading to widespread disruption across the route.

This was later confirmed by British Transport Police to be due to a fatality on the line near Crewe.

Passengers are being warned to expect significant delays, with trains subject to cancellation, alteration or delays of up to 90 minutes. Major disruption is forecast to continue until at least 12:00, and travellers are being advised to check their journeys carefully before setting out.

Avanti West Coast has confirmed that ticket acceptance has been arranged across a number of alternative routes and operators to help customers complete their journeys. The operator has also advised that if a booked service is cancelled, tickets will be accepted on either of the two Avanti West Coast services immediately before or the two immediately after the original departure.

Customers who decide not to travel due to a cancelled or delayed service are entitled to a full refund, which can be claimed from the original point of purchase.

London Northwestern Railway has also introduced limited ticket acceptance measures to support passengers affected by the closure.

Passengers are reminded that ticket acceptance agreements and alternative travel arrangements may be withdrawn at short notice. Travellers are strongly advised to check directly with their train operator for the latest updates before travelling.

Update:

Lines have now reopened but residual delays are likely to continue whilst service recovery is under way.

Image: Avanti