Signalling Failure Brings Rail Chaos Between Bournemouth and Southampton

Rail services between Bournemouth and Southampton Central have been brought to a halt due to a signalling failure, leaving all lines in the area blocked. The issue is causing widespread disruption, with trains facing cancellations, alterations or delays of up to an hour. Major disruption is expected to continue until the end of the day, while Network Rail engineers make their way to investigate and resolve the fault.

Passengers travelling through the affected section are being warned to expect significant changes to their journeys. Services operating between the two stations may be terminated early or diverted, and customers are being urged to check the status of their trains before setting out.

CrossCountry has confirmed that customers who choose to travel from an alternative station because of the disruption will be allowed to return to their original departure station using the same ticket at no additional cost. The operator has also put limited ticket acceptance arrangements in place to help passengers complete their journeys.

South Western Railway has introduced a wider range of ticket acceptance options across several rail and bus operators. In addition, the company has advised that customers may arrange their own taxi if necessary and reclaim the cost through the South Western Railway website. This applies to journeys between any South Western Railway stations from Southampton Central through to Weymouth.

Passengers are being reminded that ticket acceptance agreements and alternative travel arrangements can be withdrawn at short notice. Travellers are advised to check directly with their train operator for the latest information before making their journey.

Image: South Western Railway