Train services between Redditch and Four Oaks were suspended early on 5 November 2026 following a signalling fault between University and Five Ways stations. Rail replacement buses have operated between Redditch and Longbridge since 6:15 a.m., but services remain suspended between Four Oaks and Redditch.
Alternative Routes and Affected Lines
Bus services 45 and 47 provide alternative transport between Birmingham and Longbridge. Bus 45 runs via Selly Park, Stirchley, Cotteridge, Kings Norton, and West Heath, while bus 47 travels through Selly Park, Stirchley, Cotteridge, Wychall Lane, and Turves Green. West Midlands Railway confirmed that services between Bromsgrove and Lichfield Trent Valley are unaffected and continue
to operate between Northfield and Birmingham New Street.
The signalling fault has disrupted West Midlands Railway routes connecting Hereford, Great Malvern, Worcester Foregate Street, Redditch, Bromsgrove, and Longbridge to Birmingham New Street. CrossCountry services between Plymouth and Derby, Leeds, York, Edinburgh, Bristol Temple Meads, and Stansted Airport, as well as between Cardiff Central and Nottingham/Derby, have also experienced interruptions.
Passenger Guidance on Tickets and Compensation
Passengers affected by cancellations can use their train tickets on alternative services operated by participating train companies up to two hours before or after their original departure times. Full refunds are available for those unable to complete their journeys.
Train tickets
are accepted on West Midlands Bus services operating locally between Four Oaks, Birmingham, and Longbridge. National Rail advised that disruption is expected until 12:00 noon on 5 November 2026.
Official Statements from West Midlands Railway
A West Midlands Railway spokesperson confirmed the signalling fault between University and Five Ways as the cause of disruption, stating: “Rail replacement transport will operate between Redditch and Longbridge in both directions to help you complete your journey.”
They added, “Bromsgrove – Lichfield services remain unaffected, so there are still services running between Northfield and Birmingham New Street.” On compensation, the spokesperson said, “You may be entitled to compensation if you
experience a delay in completing your journey today. Please keep your train ticket and make a note of your journey, as both will be required to support any claim.”
Travel Impact and Advice
Passengers are advised to allow extra time for journeys using rail replacement buses, as these services are expected to be busier than usual. Those travelling between Birmingham and Longbridge should consider bus services 45 and 47 as alternatives to rail.
National Rail urges passengers to use the real-time journey planner before travelling and to check station signage or online resources for information on rail replacement pick-up and drop-off points. Birmingham New
Street station warned travellers to expect delays and to seek alternative routes where possible. Trains from Birmingham to Hereford are diverted via Camp Hill due to the disruption.
