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Learning from the Grange-over-Sands Derailment
March 10 @ 16:30 - 18:00
Tony Butler, Inspector of Rail Accidents, Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB)
Lancaster, Barrow and Carlisle Section in-person meeting
In the early morning of 22nd March 2024, a passenger train travelling at 56 mph derailed on the approach to Grange-over-Sands station between Carnforth and Barrow. The derailment occurred because a void had opened in the embankment on which the train was travelling, leading to the rails under the train losing support. Nobody was injured, but significant damage was caused both to the train and the railway infrastructure.
This presentation focuses on a key underlying factor in connection with the accident, namely the absence of effective management of flood water by multiple parties over a significant historical period; this led to a prolonged need to rely on temporary pumping arrangements, which effectively became permanent. The contributory roles of Victorian infrastructure and increasing rainfall due to climate change are also highlighted, together with changes in land management practice in the vicinity of the accident site.
Meeting in-person from 16:00 for a 16:30 start.
Transport will be provided from Carlisle Station main entrance at 16:00, returning for 18:00 (approximately) after the meeting courtesy of Network Rail.
If you are a PWI member please book your space if would like this event to be automatically recorded in your CPD portfolio.
