Thousands of rail passengers are experiencing delays and cancellations across northern England due to a power failure at a Manchester signalling centre. The electrical failure at the Manchester Rail Operating Centre, which controls railway operations including signalling in the region, occurred just before 14:00 BST.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated that disruption is anticipated for the remainder of the day. National Rail confirmed that at least eight rail operators are still affected on Thursday evening.
Affected operators include Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, London Northwestern Railway, Lumo, Northern, TransPennine Express, and Transport for Wales. Services between London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, and Liverpool Lime Street and Crewe, are among those experiencing issues.
Passengers have reported significant travel difficulties, with some facing lengthy delays, diversions, or needing to find alternative transport. Rail replacement buses are in operation between Liverpool Lime Street and Crewe, and between Crewe and Birmingham New Street.