Rail passengers in the UK experienced significant delays between Saturday 29 August and Monday 31 August 2026 as engineering works disrupted services on CrossCountry routes during the bank holiday weekend. Increased passenger numbers from events including Reading and Leeds Festivals and Manchester Village Pride contributed to heavier traffic on the network.
HS2 Construction and Track Improvements
The rail line between Birmingham New Street and Coleshill Parkway was closed for HS2-related work, including the replacement of the Saltley viaduct in the Midlands. This structure, which spanned a busy railway corridor, was rebuilt to accommodate the new high-speed rail line into Birmingham. At Water Orton, Warwickshire, a
new viaduct was installed as part of the HS2 development. Additionally, track improvement work took place between Wolverhampton and Stafford.
Replacement Transport and Passenger Advice
Replacement bus services operated between Wolverhampton, Stafford, and Stoke-on-Trent to cover some affected rail sections. CrossCountry advised customers traveling through Birmingham New Street to expect longer journey times and to allow extra time for connections. The operator also restricted the carriage of large luggage, specifically warning passengers that trolleys would not be permitted on board CrossCountry trains during the disruption.
Official Statements on Works and Passenger Guidance
Mark Anderson, CrossCountry’s customer and commercial director, urged passengers to leave more time for journeys and check travel updates before
traveling, noting the added demand due to multiple events nationwide. He said, “I’d ask customers to leave more time for their journeys and make sure they don’t bring too much luggage – trolleys, in particular, won’t be allowed on board CrossCountry services.” Patrick Cawley, director of On Network Works for Network Rail and HS2, described the Saltley viaduct replacement as a crucial step for the HS2 rail line. He stated, “The existing structure is being rebuilt to make way for Britain’s new high-speed railway into Birmingham. We’d like to thank passengers for their patience while this work takes place and
encourage everyone travelling over the bank holiday weekend to check before they travel.”
