Train services to Manchester Airport have been severely disrupted following the theft of over £100,000 worth of signalling cables from the railway line between Preston and Bolton during the Christmas period. The incident has caused significant delays and cancellations, with all lines between Preston and Bolton closed for most of the day as repair work continues.
A Network Rail spokesperson confirmed that the repairs are expected to be completed by 18:00 GMT, with limited rail replacement buses operating from Blackpool and central Manchester to the airport.
Widespread Service Disruption
The theft has impacted multiple train routes, including those between Blackpool North and Preston and Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Airport. Services are running at reduced frequency, and limited replacement buses are in place. Passengers holding Northern tickets can use them on Avanti West Coast services between Warrington Bank Quay and Oxenholme Lake District, as well as on TransPennine Express services between Manchester and Preston.
The first trains expected to resume full operations include the 17:51 Blackpool North to Manchester Airport and the 18:45 Manchester Airport to Blackpool North services.
Network Rail and Police Investigation
The stolen cable, which powered overhead line equipment crucial for electric trains, has prompted Network Rail to collaborate with the British Transport Police to find those responsible. Additional security measures are being implemented to prevent further thefts.
Christian Irwin, Network Rail’s capital delivery director, expressed regret over the disruption, stating, “I am very sorry to passengers who will be impacted by the rail closure. We are working closely with the British Transport Police to provide additional security measures and to find and prosecute those accountable.”
Ongoing Challenges for Northern Services
The incident comes as Northern services across the North West are already facing significant disruptions due to train crew shortages. Compounding the issue is the ongoing electrification work on the Wigan-Bolton line, which began in 2022 and has created additional pressure on the network.
Passengers are advised to check schedules before traveling and plan for delays, especially if heading to Manchester Airport.
