West Midlands Railway update after train derailment causes rail chaos between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury

West Midlands Railway has issued a latest update to passengers after a freight train derailment caused significant damage to infrastructure near Wolverhampton last night (Tuesday 5 May).

The incident happened between Wolverhampton and Bilbrook, where a low-speed derailment blocked all lines and damaged overhead electric wires.

Support structures holding the wires were also knocked down, leaving the route unsafe for trains.

National Rail said that all lines between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury are disrupted today (Wednesday 6 May), and trains running between these stations may be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised.

Major disruption is expected until the end of the day.

In its latest update West Midlands Railway said: “Due to a low-speed derailment of a freight train on the line between Wolverhampton and Bilbrook last night (5 May), train services are currently unable to run between Telford and Wolverhampton, with rail replacement services in operation.

“Passengers are advised to check their journey times before travelling.

“Any passenger delayed by 15 minutes or more as a result of this incident can claim compensation via the Delay Repay scheme.

“For up-to-date information, visit our website or social media channels.”

Repair work is expected to continue into tomorrow (Thursday 7 May) as engineers assess and fix the damage.

To help passengers, a limited emergency timetable has been introduced. Shuttle train services are operating between Shrewsbury and Telford, as well as between Birmingham and Wolverhampton via alternative routes.

Rail replacement buses are also running between Wolverhampton and Telford in both directions.

Passengers travelling between Birmingham New Street and Shrewsbury are being advised to change at Wolverhampton or Telford Central and continue their journey using replacement buses and modified train services.

Transport officials are urging people to check journey planners before travelling and consider delaying trips where possible.