Friday 18 Feb 2022
Preston station closed to passengers due to Storm Eunice
- Region & Route:
- North West & Central
- | North West & Central: North West
Gale force winds from Storm Eunice have closed Preston station to passengers for safety reasons.
Network Rail engineers are inspecting sections of metal roof panelling which have come loose in strong gusts of up to 80mph which are currently buffeting the North West.
Trains are able to pass through the Avanti West Coast managed station but won't stop at Preston for the rest of today.
The message to passengers continues to be ‘DO NOT TRAVEL’ as much of the network is being battered by the major storm.
Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said: “Hundreds of engineers are out in horrendous conditions trying to maintain and protect the railway from the onslaught of this major storm. Because of Storm Eunice’s severity we’ve had no choice but to close Preston so we can thoroughly inspect the roof. I’d like to thank people for following our advice by not travelling today while we work flat out to repair the damage from one of the worst storms in 30 years."
Shirley Ross, station manager at Preston Station, said: “Due to multiple weather-related incidents around the network including Preston Station as a result of Storm Eunice, all Avanti West Coast services are now cancelled for the rest of Friday 18 February. Please do not come to the station. Tickets for Friday 18 February will be valid for Saturday 19, Sunday 20, Monday 21 February. Anyone who doesn’t want to travel can get a full refund.”
Rapid response teams are clearing fallen trees and debris which are blocking lines in multiple locations across the North West.
To see how Network Rail is working flat out to get the network moving again visit the @NetworkRailLC, @NetworkRailMAN and @NetworkRailLIV Twitter accounts.
Network Rail and train operators are working together to keep people safe.
People who had tickets booked for today will be able to use their ticket to travel on equivalent services over the coming days.
Those affected should check with their train operator for the exact alternative options.
For more information visit www.nationalrail.co.uk.
Contact information
Passengers / community members
Network Rail national helpline
03457 11 41 41
Latest travel advice
Please visit National Rail Enquiries
Journalists
Network Rail press office - North West & Central Region
07740 782954
NWCmediarelations@networkrail.co.uk
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