Plessey Viaduct damage causes delays on East Coast mainline

During planned works on the Plessey Viaduct between Newcastle and Morpeth over the weekend engineers discovered the parapet, a safety feature of the bridge had moved, forcing work to stop and cancelling trains.

Drone footage released today shows the extent of the damage, with trains unable to run on one side of the viaduct, which is near Stannington in Northumberland and crosses the River Blyth.

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Network Rail says due to the location, design and nature of the viaduct, and the machinery needed, it is not feasible to move the parapet back into place. 

They have reassured the structure of the bridge itself is not affected and train services are still running on one line over the viaduct.

But the reduced capacity is causing disruption to services across the region, and from London to Edinburgh, with rail replacement busses brought in.

The Plessey Viaduct carries the busy East Coast Mainline over the River Blyth. (Image: NETWORK RAIL)

Passengers are being encouraged to check with their operator before travelling.

Paul Rutter, Route Director for Network Rail’s East Coast route, said: “Our teams are working hard to repair damage to Plessey Viaduct. While we want to minimise disruption to travellers, the safety of passengers is our top priority.

“We are sorry for the inconvenience this will cause to journeys and we want to thank passengers for their patience and understanding while we carry out this vital work.”

Train operators initially told customers to expect disruption until the end of service on Tuesday (October 10), but work looks set to continue for weeks, if not months.

Network Rail has not yet revealed a timescale for completing repairs, although is expected to make a further announcement on Tuesday.

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A spokesperson on behalf of train operators said: “We want to thank our passengers for their patience as Network Rail carries out essential work to repair Plessey Viaduct. There is a reduced service in place, and some services are not stopping at Morpeth, Cramlington, and Manors stations.

“We are advising passengers to check before they travel with National Rail Enquiries or via their train operator.”

LNER services southbound are not stopping at Morpeth station. All Northern services from Newcastle to Morpeth are cancelled except for commuter trains at 5.57am and 5.57pm.