Major disruption caused by derailed freight train in Carlisle

A derailed cement train caused major disruption around Carlisle.

At around 8pm on Wednesday the 19th October 2022, the 17:15 Clitheroe to Carlisle Yard GBRf class 66 cement train, derailed at Petteril Bridge Junction. The derailment has lead to the Carlisle to Newcastle line and the Carlisle to Leeds line being temporarily closed.

Inspectors from the RAIB (Rail Accident Investigation Branch) were dispatched immediately as is standard procedure. Network Rail has worked with the RAIB and other entities to try and determine what caused the derailment.

Together, they have reached the conclusion that the derailment was caused by a false flange on a wheel set of a cement wagon. A false flange – also known as a flat wheel – is where a flat occurs when a wheel is sliding along a rail.

Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said: “I’m extremely sorry to passengers who are facing disruption today while we deal with this incident in Carlisle. Thankfully train derailments are rare and our priority now is to protect the safety of people using the railway, those living beside it and the surrounding environment while we carry out the necessary detailed investigation and complex recovery work.”

As the time of writing (Thursday 27th September 2022) Network Rail has released a second press release stating the progress of the cleanup operation.

Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern, said: “We continue to work closely with Network Rail to minimise disruption for our customers while the recovery operation takes place. Customers should still check before they travel and plan for longer journey times. We will share updates on our website and via social media when they become available.”

Bus replacement services will be running on services on the Tyne Valley and Settle and Carlisle lines until the 4th of November 2022.

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Lewis