CrossCountry Services Crippled by Birmingham Power Cut
Electrical failure at main control centre leads to widespread cancellations and significant disruption across almost all routes.
Carla Rooney
CrossCountry has cancelled most of its Sunday services following a power cut in Birmingham.
CrossCountry confirmed significant reductions and cancellations across nearly all routes, despite colleagues working to safely operate services using alternative processes.
Heidi Alexander confirmed the service between Peterborough, Cambridge, and Stansted is still running, with regular operations expected on this specific route.
Alexander also stated that publicly owned operators have been asked to lay on extra services where possible; Network Rail power teams are onsite, working to restore power and systems.
A planned rail replacement bus service remains in place between Leicester and Peterborough, offering a limited alternative for affected passengers.
Tickets bought for CrossCountry travel on Sunday can be used with other train operators along the same route and remain valid on CrossCountry services until Wednesday.
LNER confirmed other operators are accepting tickets to help get affected customers to their destination.
Customers can apply for Delay Repay compensation for delays of 30 minutes or more, or claim a refund if they choose not to travel.
People planning to travel on Sunday are advised to check their journey with National Rail Enquiries for up-to-date information.
Heidi Alexander expressed concern about the power outage affecting CrossCountry rail services, acknowledging the frustration for passengers.
Very frustrating.
Customers have complained about the disruption on social media, describing cancellations as “very frustrating”; a CrossCountry spokesperson added that they are working closely with relevant partners and will provide further updates as soon as possible.