Network Rail has launched a major repair operation to fix damage caused by devastating wildfires in Stourbridge, with the aim of fully reopening the railway between Stourbridge Junction and Hagley by Saturday, August 22.
The fires broke out on Thursday, August 13, and badly damaged the route. Over the weekend, Network Rail engineers carried out extensive assessments, uncovering issues with signalling, phone lines, and lineside fencing.
Repair work began on Monday, August 17. Teams are working to restore the line as quickly as possible, but passengers are being urged to plan ahead and check before they travel.
Extensive damage found during assessments
Denise Wetton, integrated managing director for GBR West Midlands, said: “Our thoughts remain with those impacted by these devastating fires. We know how important this line is for local communities and are doing all we can to help Stourbridge residents and reopen the railway as soon as possible.”
She added: “Our teams carried out extensive assessments over the weekend, revealing significant damage. We will continue to work throughout this week to make repairs, with the aim of reopening the line on Saturday 22 August.”
“I’m grateful to our customers for their patience during this challenging time. As we work to return to a normal service in the coming days, I’d advise customers to plan ahead and check before they travel.”
Current service alterations and replacement buses
Currently, Birmingham to Kidderminster services are running only between Birmingham and Stourbridge Junction. Passengers can use rail replacement buses between Stourbridge and Kidderminster, which call at Hagley and Blakedown.
Worcester to Hereford services are running as scheduled, but Birmingham to Worcester services are subject to alteration.
Passengers are advised to visit www.nationalrail.co.uk for the latest travel information.
The repair operation is expected to continue throughout the week, with the goal of restoring full service by Saturday, August 22. Network Rail has not yet provided further updates on the progress of the repairs.
