'Major delays' expected on Edinburgh Waverley route after fire damages signal cables

Network Rail has warned of major delays on a rail route out of Edinburgh after a severe fire damaged signal cables.

Disruption is expected on the East Coast Main Line, which connects Edinburgh to London and Newcastle, as fire crews tackle the blaze on the line near Stevenage.

London North Eastern Railway has warned commuters “do not travel” due to the severity of the fire.

Pictures from the scene show large flames on the side of the tracks, while plumes of black smoke fill the air.

The Edinburgh Waverley media team took to X to warn travellers of the disruption, urging them to check their train operator’s latest travel advice before departing.

A spokesperson wrote: “Major delays are expected on the East Coast Main Line for the rest of today, due to a fire damaging signalling cables near Stevenage.

“Check your train operator’s latest travel advice before you leave the house.”

Major delays are expected on the East Coast Main Line for the rest of today, due to a fire damaging signalling cables near Stevenage. Check your train operator's latest travel advice before you leave the house.@LNER @CrossCountryUK @TPExpressTrains @LumoTravel @NetworkRailEC https://t.co/IZOVHqMp1P
— Edinburgh Waverley (@NetworkRailEDB) October 9, 2024