Freight train derailment disrupts Sheffield services

Sixteen wagons forming Freightliner’s 0213 Hope-Dewsbury train derailed in Sheffield station’s northern throat in the early hours of November 11.

Hauled by a Class 66/6, the train derailed at around 0245 as it passed Platform 1. Nobody was hurt in the accident, which resulted in one of the PCA cement tanks landing on its side.

That morning’s peak service was badly disrupted, as five of the station’s eight platforms were blocked.

Network Rail said there had also been significant damage to signalling and points.

As this issue of RAIL went to press, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch was attending the site to gather information ahead of carrying out a preliminary investigation. Office of Rail and Road inspectors also attended the scene.

CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Northern and TransPennine Express services were all disrupted, with some bus replacements laid on where possible.

“Thankfully, train derailments are very rare, but when they do happen we have to act with utmost caution to protect the safety of everyone using the railway,” said Network Rail North and East Route Director Matt Rice.

NETWORK RAIL. A PCA cement tank lies on its side at Sheffield on November 11, having derailed earlier that morning. Investigations have begun into why 16 wagons (including this one) derailed as Freightliner’s 0213 Hope-Dewsbury passed through Sheffield station.