West Midlands Train Services Disrupted After Landslip Damages Railway
Train passengers across the West Midlands have been urged to verify their travel plans following a significant landslip incident in Worcestershire. The disruption stems from a retaining wall that collapsed onto a railway line, causing extensive damage and necessitating urgent repair work.
Incident Details and Timeline
The initial landslip occurred on Thursday, February 12, 2026, leading to the collapse of a retaining wall along a railway cutting situated between Droitwich Spa and Worcester Foregate Street. This event compromised the structural integrity of the earthworks above the tracks.
Subsequently, on Saturday, February 14, the wall experienced further collapse, heightening concerns about the stability of the surrounding area. In response, Network Rail, in collaboration with contractors QTS, initiated a comprehensive stabilization project starting Friday, February 13.
Ongoing Repair Efforts
To address the damage, crews are excavating more than 1,200 tonnes of soil and installing over 240 concrete blocks. This work aims to secure a 125-metre section of the railway track, ensuring long-term safety and reliability. The operation is expected to continue until the cutting is fully stabilized.
Adam Checkley, infrastructure director for Network Rail Central route, emphasized the complexity of the task. "We would like to thank passengers for their patience while we carry out this complex and essential work to make the railway safe," he stated. "Our teams are working around the clock to stabilise the cutting and get people back on the move as quickly as possible."
Current Service Status
As a result of the incident, no train services are currently operating on the line between Worcester Foregate Street and Droitwich Spa. However, the line connecting Worcester Shrub Hill to Worcester Foregate Street and Droitwich Spa remains open, albeit with an amended schedule in place.
Passengers traveling through Worcestershire and the wider West Midlands region are advised to monitor service updates closely. Normal operations are anticipated to resume in the coming days, but travelers should plan ahead to minimize inconvenience.
Travel Advice for Commuters
To stay informed about the latest developments, passengers are encouraged to utilize the National Rail website for real-time travel information. This resource provides detailed updates on service alterations and estimated restoration times, helping commuters navigate the disruption effectively.
The incident underscores the challenges posed by geological events to transportation infrastructure, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and rapid response protocols in ensuring passenger safety and network resilience.
