Train services between Redditch and Four Oaks were suspended early on November 5, 2026 due to a signalling fault located between University and Five Ways stations, causing widespread delays and cancellations across Birmingham’s rail network.
Rail Replacement Buses Active Between Redditch and Longbridge
Replacement buses have been deployed to operate between Redditch and Longbridge in both directions since 6:15 AM. Bus routes 45 and 47 provide alternative links on the routes from Birmingham to Longbridge. Route 45 serves Selly Park, Stirchley, Cotteridge, Kings Norton, and West Heath, while route 47 connects Selly Park, Stirchley, Cotteridge, Wychall Lane, and Turves Green. Passengers are advised that replacement bus services may
experience higher than usual demand, requiring additional travel time.
Unaffected Rail Routes and Ongoing Services
West Midlands Railway confirmed that services operating between Bromsgrove and Lichfield Trent Valley remain unaffected. Trains continue to run along the route between Northfield and Birmingham New Street. Services outside the Redditch to Four Oaks section of the Cross City Line are still operating.
Broader Impact on West Midlands Railway and CrossCountry Services
The signalling issue also affected West Midlands Railway routes from Hereford, Great Malvern, Worcester Foregate Street, Redditch, Bromsgrove, and Longbridge to Birmingham New Street. CrossCountry services on long-distance routes including Plymouth to Derby, Leeds, York, Edinburgh, Bristol Temple Meads, Stansted Airport, and between Cardiff Central and Nottingham/Derby
are disrupted by the fault. These delays and cancellations have affected the wider West Midlands rail network.
Passenger Travel Advice and Compensation Rights
Passengers with cancelled services are permitted to use their valid tickets on alternative train services offered by participating operators up to two hours before or after their original departure times. Full refunds are available for those unable to complete their journeys. West Midlands Railway advised travellers to retain all tickets and journey records to support potential compensation claims. Passengers can also use local West Midlands bus services between Four Oaks, Birmingham, and Longbridge using their train tickets. Birmingham New Street station and National
Rail recommend checking station signage and online resources for the latest updates and replacement transport locations.
“Rail replacement transport will operate between Redditch and Longbridge in both directions to help you complete your journey,” said a West Midlands Railway spokesperson. Another spokesperson added, “Fault with the signalling system between University and Five Ways has caused delays and cancellations on the Cross City line.” Additionally, “Bromsgrove to Lichfield services remain unaffected, so there are still trains running between Northfield and Birmingham New Street,” the spokesperson confirmed. They also noted, “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.”
National Rail has stated that disruption is expected to continue until at least 12:00 PM on November 5, 2026, with no current estimate for full service restoration on the affected routes.
