Disruption between Ingatestone and Chelmsford

The Situation

After a freight train broke down earlier today, between Ingatestone and Chelmsford, the line has now reopened. Some disruption is expected as the broken down train is pulled away from the passenger lines by a rescuing Locomotive.

What does rescuing a train mean?

Rescuing a train is essentially the same as using a car breakdown service, whereby another train will attach to the broken down one and tow it away to a depot or place of safety, where it is clear of the line.

Alternative Travel Options

Trains are able to run using the opposite line between Ingatestone and Chelmsford. This is similar to a contra-flow system on a motorway or a lane closure on a road where temporary traffic lights are in operation.

You will be able to make your journey with us, but please be prepared for a delay. You may need to travel on a different service.

Hot Weather Today – If you are travelling please;

  • Check your journey – be prepared that your journey could be disrupted and allow plenty of time
  • Bring a bottle of water with you and keep hydrated – water fountains with free cold water are installed at 13 of our stations and at London Liverpool Street
  • Consider using a hand-held fan
  • If you feel unwell at the station, do not board the train. Seek help and speak to staff.
  • If you feel unwell and you are already on the train, please seek help at the next station where it will be easier for assistance to reach you.
  • Stay safe in the sun by wearing sun cream, wearing light clothing, and keeping in the shade where you can

Information on hot weather and the railway[1] is available on the Network Rail website.

Further Information

Greater Anglia and Network Rail are sorry if your journey has been affected by this disruption.

  • Advance purchase tickets holders will be allowed to travel on earlier or later trains.
  • Specific train service alterations are available on our JourneyCheck.[2]
  • Delayed by 15 minutes or more? Claim with Delay Repay[3].

An explanation of the common causes of delays – and what we’re doing to reduce their frequency and impact can be found on the Network Rail website.[4]

References

  1. ^ hot weather and the railway (www.networkrail.co.uk)
  2. ^ JourneyCheck. (www.journeycheck.com)
  3. ^ Delay Repay (www.greateranglia.co.uk)
  4. ^ Common causes of train delays (www.networkrail.co.uk)