Nationwide comms system fault disrupts Transport for Wales train services

Rail passengers across the UK are facing significant disruption this morning due to a nationwide fault with the communication system used between train drivers and signallers.

The issue, which affects the GSM-R radio system, has caused delays and short-notice cancellations on Transport for Wales (TfW) services and other National Rail routes.

Transport for Wales has reported major delays on key routes, including Aberystwyth to Shrewsbury, Chester to Crewe, and Shrewsbury to Birmingham.

Minor delays are also impacting services across the network, such as Cardiff to Swansea, Chester to Manchester, and Wrexham to Bidston.

In a statement on its website, TfW confirmed: “Due to a fault with the radio system between the driver and the signaller, all lines are disrupted. Train services running across the whole Transport for Wales network may be delayed or revised. Disruption is expected until 10:30 on 6 December.”

The fault is primarily affecting trains leaving depots to begin their services.

However, once trains are underway, they are operating as normal.

Passengers are advised to check their journeys before travelling, allow extra time, and monitor live departure boards for updates.

The GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway) radio system is essential for ensuring safe communication between train drivers and signal operators.

Engineers are currently investigating the issue, but no updates on a resolution have been provided yet.

For those affected by delays or cancellations, Transport for Wales advises contacting their customer relations team via email at [email protected] or picking up a form from a ticket office to claim compensation.

Passengers can also use the National Rail Enquiries real-time Journey Planner to check the status of their journeys.