Storm Goretti to halt rail services on Wrexham–Bidston line
Rail passengers are being advised to expect major disruption across Wales on Thursday 8 January, with the Wrexham to Bidston line among several routes to close due to severe weather warnings.
Yellow and amber warnings for snow and wind have been issued across most of Wales from 3pm on Thursday until midday on Friday, with up to 30cm of snow possible in some areas. Winds of 40–50mph are also forecast, increasing the risk of fallen trees and further disruption.
Network Rail and Transport for Wales have confirmed that, while services will operate normally on Thursday morning, a series of line closures will begin from mid-afternoon as Storm Goretti moves in.
From 3pm, no trains will operate on several routes, including the Wrexham to Bidston line. The Cambrian Coast, Heart of Wales, Llandudno, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Maesteg, Ebbw Vale, and Vale of Glamorgan lines will also be suspended.
Rail replacement buses will not operate during the closures due to poor road conditions.
A reduced timetable will continue to run elsewhere, including hourly services between Cardiff, Crewe, Shrewsbury and Holyhead, and a limited service on the Core Valley Lines.
Network Rail teams are preparing for the storm by inspecting drainage systems, checking points heaters, and deploying snow and ice treatment trains. Chainsaw crews will also be on standby to remove fallen trees.
Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders, said: “Storm Goretti is expected to bring challenging conditions from Thursday afternoon and overnight, including snow, ice and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the railway. While services are expected to run as normal on Thursday morning, from mid-afternoon onwards we anticipate the need to close some lines to keep passengers and our colleagues safe.”
“Safety is our number one priority, and our teams are working around the clock, alongside train operators, to prepare the network and respond quickly as conditions change. We’d urge passengers to check before they travel and plan ahead, particularly on Thursday night and Friday morning.”
Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales, added: “We’ve already seen a lot of snow across our network at the start of this year, and with Storm Goretti forecast to bring further challenging conditions. We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation across the network. We’re asking passengers to take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery.”
Passengers are advised to check the latest travel information at nationalrail.co.uk and https://livemap.tfw.wales/
. Rail tickets dated Thursday 8 January will be valid for travel until Sunday 11 January.
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