10.05.12
Freight derailment causes severe disruption
Passenger services are disrupted today after a freight train derailed yesterday afternoon just outside of Aberdeen.
The 15-mile stretch of line between Aberdeen and Stonehaven has been closed since the derailment happened just before 5pm yesterday (Wednesday), as it was crossing onto the main line.
Disruption is expected to continue until Friday morning, due to the difficulty in locating a suitable crane to correct the rolling stock.
The south-bound freight train, operated by Freightliner, had been pulling 25 cylindrical freight containers. At least one of the wagons came off the tracks near east Tullos on the outskirts of Aberdeen.
The RAIB is investigating.
A spokesman for Transport Scotland said: “At present there are no reports of injuries and, as the wagons were empty, no threat of environmental impact is expected as a result of this derailment.
“It is however likely to result in disruption for rail travellers coming to and from Aberdeen whilst the freight train wagons are removed from the line.
“Members of the public are urged to check ScotRail's website for the latest information on disruption before travelling.”
Replacement buses are running between Aberdeen and Stonehaven whilst the railway is out of use.
(Library image, courtesy Network Rail)
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