Multiple UK Rail Lines Disrupted by Fires, Renewal Works Affect Passengers

Several major train service disruptions have occurred across the UK due to fires and infrastructure damage. In Kent, a fire damaged signalling cables in Rainham, causing suspension of services between Sittingbourne and Gillingham with expected delays continuing as repairs are ongoing. Similarly, Greater Anglia services between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea face significant disruption from a line-side fire near Thorpe-le-Soken, leading to severe delays, cancellations, and reliance on local bus routes as Network Rail engineers work to restore service. In Manchester, a fire next to the tracks at Oxford Road station led to full cancellation of train services and evacuation of nearby areas, with disruption expected to last into the following morning. Additionally, planned major railway renewal work between Shrewsbury and Crewe will close the line for a weekend in July, involving track replacement and infrastructure improvements, with bus replacements and diversions in place. Passengers are advised to check live travel updates and allow extra time for journeys amid these disruptions.