A 100-ton landslide disrupted railway services between Shrewsbury and Wrexham on January 5, 2025. Source: BBC (image by Network Rail)
A 100-ton landslide disrupted railway services between Shrewsbury and Wrexham on January 5, 2025, prompting swift action from Network Rail and the contractor team. The landslide, which occurred at Gobowen in Shropshire, caused significant debris to block the track, leading to service diversions through Crewe. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of engineers, services resumed by January 8.
Rapid Response to a Geological Challenge
The landslide was attributed to groundwater activity rather than heavy rain or runoff. Network Rail highlighted that the prolonged wet conditions, combined with the area’s aquifer-like geology, likely caused the slope to degrade. Emergency work included removing 100 tons of debris, clearing loose material from the slope, and installing temporary barriers to prevent further slippage.
Access to the site posed an additional challenge, as the nearest point required traveling over 6 kilometers. Despite this, engineers opted for a more distant entry to avoid disrupting additional services at Shrewsbury station, showcasing a balance between efficiency and operational consideration.
Emergency work included removing 100 tons of debris. Source: New Civil Engineer
Long-Term Stability Measures
While temporary measures are in place, Network Rail has initiated a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the failure. Cameras will be installed to monitor the slope, ensuring proactive management and early detection of potential issues.
This incident is a reminder of the importance of routine monitoring and maintenance of railway infrastructure. The Gobowen slope, inspected within the past two years, had shown no signs of instability before the event. However, the prolonged wet weather underscores the need for adaptive geotechnical strategies to address evolving climatic conditions.
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