Network Rail reveals latest developments on '100 ton' landslip that blocked county route

The rail line at Gobowen, travelling in the Wrexham to Shrewsbury direction, was hit by a major landslip on Saturday evening - triggered by recent bad weather.

The situation closed the route in that direction, before the line was shut in both directions yesterday to allow Network Rail teams to work 'day and night' to repair the damage.

A spokesman for Network Rail said the team had moved a mass of debris from the line - equivalent to the weight of a Boeing 757 - but that more inspections were needed before deciding to re-open the route. It had initially been hoped the route would be re-opened on Tuesday morning but further work is needed to ensure the embankment is stable.

It means passengers looking to get to Gobowen, Chirk, Ruabon, or Wrexham General stations, will  still need to use a bus replacement service for now.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: "Following the recent bad weather across Wales, a landslip of around 100 tons took place near the railway line between Wrexham and Shrewsbury on Saturday evening.

"This meant the railway track heading from Wrexham towards Shrewsbury had to be closed to keep passengers safe, while the work takes place to clear the line, with passengers diverted via Crewe.

"Our teams have been on site since Sunday, using both sides of the track to safely work through the day and night, removing the landslip of earth, vegetation and other debris - which is the equivalent weight of a Boeing 757."

A spokesman for Transport for Wales also confirmed the plan, saying: "Following a landslip at Gobowen on Saturday evening, the railway line between Wrexham and Shrewsbury is currently closed.

"Network Rail engineers are currently on site assessing the damage and undertaking emergency repairs."