Commuters and travellers across the West Midlands are facing severe disruption to their journeys today due to urgent railway repairs. Major delays and cancellations are expected to continue until the end of the day, Monday 19 January 2026.
Cause of the Widespread Disruption
The root of the problem is urgent repair work being carried out on the track between Telford Central and Wolverhampton stations. This has resulted in the line heading towards Wolverhampton being completely blocked. A spokesperson for National Rail confirmed the situation, stating the repairs are causing "major disruption" across the network.
Impact on Services and Passenger Advice
The blockage has a significant knock-on effect for services operated by Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, and West Midlands Railway. Passengers travelling between Shrewsbury, Stafford, and Wolverhampton are being warned that their trains may be cancelled or delayed by up to 60 minutes. Some services to and from Birmingham New Street are also impacted.
Rail replacement bus services, operated by Stagecoach, are running between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton via Telford Central in both directions. Passengers are advised that they can use their existing train tickets on these buses at no extra cost. Station staff and help points are the best sources for the latest departure information.
Ticket Acceptance on Alternative Routes
To help passengers complete their journeys, ticket acceptance agreements are in place with several other operators. The key arrangements include:
- Avanti West Coast customers can use tickets on Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, and London Northwestern Railway services on specific routes, as well as on earlier or later Avanti services if theirs is cancelled.
- West Midlands Railway tickets are being accepted on West Midlands Metro trams between Wolverhampton and Birmingham Snow Hill.
- Transport for Wales passengers can travel on West Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, and the Metro on related routes.
Passengers are urged to plan ahead, allow considerable extra time for travel, and check with their specific operator for the most detailed and up-to-date guidance before setting out.
