Severe rail delays between Wrexham and Bidston after a vehicle strikes bridge

Passengers are being advised of ‘severe delays’ this afternoon – with train lines between Wrexham and Bidston are currently closed after a vehicle hit a bridge in Buckley.

Services between the Wrexham and Bidston are currently cancelled or delayed throughout most of the afternoon.

After a bridge has been hit, no trains can travel over it until it has been checked to make sure that it is safe. Trains may have to divert or be cancelled, all leading to delays for passengers.

Network Rail estimate engineers on site to inspect bridge at around approximately 1.15pm – with Arriva Trains Wales stating that disruption is expected until 3pm.

A Network Rail spokesperson said:  “Shortly after midday, a vehicle struck a rail bridge on Padeswood Road, in Penyffordd.

“Safety is a key priority, and trains are currently unable to travel over the bridge until a qualified engineer has inspected it for any structural damage.

“We are working with our partners Arriva Trains Wales to keep passengers moving with a rail replacement bus service, and would advise people to check before they travel between Wrexham and Bidston.

“Bridge strikes cost the taxpayer millions of pounds and delay thousands of passengers every year, so we’d like to remind drivers to check the height of their vehicles before passing under any bridges.”

Coaches are providing replacement road transport which the cancellations and delays are in place.

Details on the Arriva Trains Wales website, state: “If your train journey has been delayed you may be entitled to compensation. Please keep your ticket to accompany any claim.

“For more information please visit arrivatrainswales.co.uk/contactus where you can claim online, or pick up a form from your nearest ticket office.”

More information as and when it is available.