Rail operator CrossCountry experienced widespread service disruptions across the UK after a power cut affected its control center in Birmingham. The outage rendered many of the systems responsible for managing railway operations unavailable, necessitating the cancellation of nearly all services operated by the company, according to statements from the operator.
The cancellations impacted a majority of CrossCountry’s network, including major routes such as Manchester to Birmingham via Stoke-on-Trent, Coventry, and Wolverhampton; Leeds to York; Cheltenham to Cardiff; and Glasgow to Edinburgh. Services to Plymouth and Penzance were also disrupted. The only route expected to maintain near-normal operations was between Peterborough, Cambridge, and Stansted Airport. The disruptions were described by CrossCountry as stemming from “significant and unforeseen disruption.”
Passengers expressed frustration across social media platforms regarding the widespread cancellations. Some travelers reported arranging alternative transportation via coach services or switching to other rail operators to complete their journeys. Football fans traveling to matches in Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle were warned that available services would likely be extremely busy due to increased demand from alternative routing.
CrossCountry indicated it was collaborating with relevant partners to address the situation and committed to providing updates as circumstances developed. The operator apologized to affected passengers and confirmed that tickets were being accepted by competing rail operators. Passengers who experienced delays of 30 minutes or more are eligible for Delay Repay compensation, while those opting not to travel can request refunds. National Rail advised customers that London Underground services and West Midlands Metro services between Wolverhampton and Birmingham New Street could be utilized at no additional cost. Tickets purchased for Sunday travel on CrossCountry services were extended to remain valid through Wednesday.
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