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☀️ The Heat Impact: Speed Restrictions & Rail Flexibility

June 22, 2026

    Network Rail has implemented emergency afternoon speed restrictions on major lines out of Birmingham New Street to protect tracks from buckling under intense heat.

    • Avanti West Coast: Experiencing delays and potential short-notice cancellations across the West Coast Main Line out of Birmingham.

    • West Midlands Railway & London Northwestern Railway: Local lines inside the West Midlands hub (such as the Cross-City Line) are running, but speed restrictions are causing knock-on delays of 10–20 minutes on regional trains heading towards Euston or Liverpool.

    • Station Closure Note: The Hall Green Station Car Park is completely closed for essential works all this week (until June 28).

    Passenger Comfort Alert: Free water refill stations are active at Birmingham New Street. Passengers are heavily encouraged to carry water and stay off trains if they feel unwell before boarding.

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