Landslip Closes Wolverhampton-Shrewsbury Railway, Urgent Repairs Underway

A landslip near Oakengates station has shut the railway between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury, with repairs expected to last at least two weeks. Passengers are advised to check travel plans.

Rail travelers between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury are facing significant disruptions following a landslip near Oakengates station in Telford, prompting an immediate closure of the railway line for emergency repairs. Network Rail has estimated the line will remain closed for at least two weeks as engineers undertake extensive work to stabilize the embankment compromised by the slip.

The incident occurred on the morning of Friday, 8 March, leading to the closure of the line between Wellington and Oakengates stations. Engineers have identified that around 5,000 tonnes of material have shifted beneath a 50-meter section of track, a result of prolonged heavy rainfall over the winter that weakened the underlying earthwork.

Efforts to plan and execute the necessary repairs are ongoing, with round-the-clock work to mobilize the required personnel and equipment. Initial steps involve the removal of vegetation to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure safe access for the repair work.

Adam Checkley, infrastructure director for Network Rail, expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and emphasized the complexity of the repair process. He advised travelers to stay informed on the latest developments via the National Rail website.

During the closure, alternative travel arrangements, including rail replacement buses, are in place for customers of West Midlands Railway and Transport for Wales, affecting journeys between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury. Jonny Wiseman, West Midlands Railway's customer experience director, acknowledged the significant impact of the landslip and thanked passengers for their patience. He encouraged travelers to check their plans carefully and allow extra time for their journeys.

For the latest travel advice and updates on the situation, passengers are urged to visit www.nationalrail.co.uk.