‘Prolonged disruption’ expected on GWR and LNER as cracks found on trains
Hitachi trains have been taken off the network for companies like Great Western Railway (GWR) and the London North Eastern Railway (LNER), with significant disruptions now expected.
The Department for Transport said in a statement today that cracks had been found in the chassis of some of the trains during routine safety checks.
The department said “disruption is likely for a prolonged period”, particularly on GWR journeys.
Other train networks affected are Hull Trains and the TransPennine Express.
Rail minister Chris Heaton-Harris said the cracks were found early this morning and that the trains involved will “undergo full and rigorous checks”.
“I share the frustration of passengers who are experiencing significant disruption, and would ask people whose journeys are affected to check before travelling,” he read.
“I’ve asked operators to ensure extra staff are on hand to help people complete their journeys safely, to increase their communications with passengers, and to make information on refunds and compensation clear.”
Heaton-Harris added: “Hitachi are working to complete these strict precautionary checks. Trains will be returned to service as quickly as possible once they are fully approved as safe by the manufacturer.”