Get ready for a bumpy start to the weekend! Travel plans are facing disruptions across the UK, with flight cancellations at Heathrow and City airports, a major road closure on the M62, and delays on the London Underground.
A Weekend of Delays
It’s not looking good for commuters hoping for a smooth Friday rush hour. British Airways has already cancelled several flights from Heathrow and City airports. Adding to the woes, the M62, a crucial route for drivers, will be closed tonight and over the weekend, as a new £22 million bridge is installed.
The situation isn’t much better on the London Underground. The Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines are experiencing severe delays, while the Elizabeth line faces potential cancellations and delays due to a faulty track.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain in London, south of England, and Wales, which will likely worsen travel conditions until midnight.
M62 Closure: A Major Headache
The M62, a major route carrying around 120,000 vehicles daily, will be closed in both directions between Manchester and Leeds for the weekend. This is the first of two major weekend closures, making it crucial for drivers to plan ahead and find alternative routes.
Train Disruptions: Derailment and Delays
A freight train derailment near Denton, Greater Manchester, has brought freight services to a standstill and caused disruption for passenger trains. While there were no injuries, the derailment highlights the vulnerability of rail infrastructure.
The Elizabeth line is also experiencing delays and cancellations between London Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 4 due to a defective track.
Southeastern Railway Struggles: Police Incident and Broken Trains
Southeastern Railway passengers are facing a double whammy. A police incident near Dover has caused cancellations and delays, while a broken-down train between Charing and Ashford International further disrupts services.
These disruptions affect trains heading towards London St Pancras, Cannon Street, and Charing Cross, impacting the travel plans of countless commuters.
More Delays, Disruptions, and Closures
The travel disruptions extend beyond the major transport hubs. The A303 is closed westbound near Basingstoke following a multi-vehicle crash. The M25 is experiencing slow-moving traffic and lane closures due to flooding.
The Victoria line on the London Underground faces minor delays due to a signal failure at Finsbury Park, while the Tramlink network is also experiencing delays due to a broken-down bus.
The weekend is off to a chaotic start, with a combination of factors disrupting travel across the UK. From flight cancellations to road closures and train delays, commuters and travelers are facing a myriad of challenges. With the weather adding to the mix, it’s crucial to check for updates and plan accordingly.
