MP calls for improvements to flooded train line

Wellington Railway Station was severely flooded at the end of September

Telford's MP has pledged to continue asking for improvements at Wellington Railway Station after it was hit by severe flooding.

Passengers were faced with disruption between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton at the end of September when the line became blocked in both directions.

Residents claim drainage at the station is "not good enough" and have pleaded with Network Rail to "take the matter seriously" and the organisation said it was working on better long-term solutions.

Telford MP Shaun Davies said he will be seeking answers from the rail company following the flooding.

Road transport was arranged to shuttle people between the stations after heavy rain left the track at Wellington underwater.

One resident, Alan Lewis, said: "The issue is that the drainage around Wellington station is not good enough and I think trains have been cancelled at least five times this year over a number of days due to flooding.

“Network Rail have not dealt with the issue, so hopefully they will take the matter seriously this time and come up with a permanent solution.”

Mr Davies said flooding along the rail route has a "considerable impact on our local economy".

“I have raised concerns about the line’s resilience and reliability, and I will continue to ask for improvements," he added.

"This route is vital for so many people across Telford and across our county.”

Ongoing repairs were being made to the railway between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury due to the flood damage, a spokesperson for Network Rail said.

"Whilst this work takes place, our priority is to keep the safe movement of freight and passengers with minimal disruption," they added.

"It’s expected the work will continue for a few weeks whilst we also work with third parties to identify better ongoing water management solutions around the railway at Wellington.”

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.