News Beat
Storm Goretti could disrupt trains across Lancs and GM
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for snow starting on Thursday afternoon (January 8) which covers large areas of the North West and the Midlands.
They have warned that these conditions could continue into Friday (January 9).
Network Rail teams across the North West are actively preparing for snow and ice by treating tracks and station surfaces, and applying de-icer to points
Passengers travelling across the North West, particularly in the High Peak, should take extra care and plan their journeys in advance.
Passengers travelling north from London Euston should also be aware that Avanti West Coast are operation fewer services from London to Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham.
Snow and ice can make it difficult for trains to run safely by building up on tracks blocking points, coating the electrified third rail and power cables, and icicles forming on tunnels and bridges.
Ross Davies, Network Rail’s North West operations director, said: “We are doing everything we can to prepare the railway for the impacts from Storm Goretti.
“I’d urge passengers to check before they travel as there is likely to be disruption to services during the extreme weather. The safety of passengers and colleagues will be at the heart of everything we do as we respond to this storm.”
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Train operator Northern has also warned that the following routes will be closed between 6pm on Thursday and 10pm on Saturday:
- Buxton-Hazel Grove
- New Mills Central-Sheffield
- Guide Bridge-Glossop/Hadfield
Tricia Williams, managing director at Northern, said: “We have issued ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings on these three routes and are advising customers to check before they travel on other routes across our network and allow extra time for their journeys.
“We never do this without careful consideration and are working closely with Network Rail to prepare for the storm. We will be running services where it is safe to do so.”
