RAIB release update as South Wales trains travel ‘significantly’ over weather related speed limits

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RAIB release update as South Wales trains travel ‘significantly’ over weather related speed limits

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The start point of one of the blanket speed restrictions at Bishton (courtesy of Network Rail).
The start point of one of the blanket speed restrictions at Bishton // Credit: Network Rail

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has released an update after it was found that at least eight trains did not observe the speed restrictions imposed in South Wales due to forecasted high winds.

Between 11:33 and 14:08 on the 27th of January 2025, it was found that the trains did not travel at the correct speed of 50mph that had been imposed at two locations on the South Wales Main Line.

The forecasted high winds were between Neath and Swansea and a hazard from high-risk trees between Bishton and Newport.

Some of the trains were travelling significantly over the speed limit, but thankfully, there were no consequences.

With their preliminary examination complete, the RAIB says that they will produce a safety digest, which will be available soon.

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