Major Signalling Failure at London Waterloo Causes Travel Chaos, 'Do Not Travel' Warning Issued

July 21, 2025
Major Signalling Failure at London Waterloo Causes Travel Chaos, 'Do Not Travel' Warning Issued
  • Passengers at London Waterloo face ongoing disruption due to a major signalling failure affecting train services across the network, with fourteen platforms out of use and a 'do not travel' notice issued for the morning.

  • While some services may resume later in the day, delays and alterations are expected to persist, impacting routes to Reading, Windsor & Eton Riverside, and suburban lines.

  • All ticket restrictions have been lifted, allowing travelers to use any reasonable route, including services from East Midlands Railway and TransPennine Express, and tickets purchased for Monday remain valid for Tuesday.

  • Passengers are advised that SWR will not reimburse taxi fares, but tickets will be accepted on various bus and train services at no extra cost, including London Buses, Falcon Buses, and Stagecoach South.

  • An hourly shuttle service is operating between Piccadilly and Romiley, though journey times are extended by up to 60 minutes due to rail replacement transport.

  • Reliable train services are expected to return on routes to Reading, Windsor & Eton Riverside, and suburban lines, as efforts continue to restore full service.

  • Passengers have expressed frustration over lengthy delays and the need to seek alternative routes, such as buses, which can add hours to their journeys.

  • This incident highlights the need for ongoing investment in London's rail infrastructure, including upgrades to signaling technology and maintenance systems to prevent future disruptions.

  • A live blog has been published to keep the public informed about ongoing travel issues throughout the day.

  • The signalling failure occurred on the same day that South Western Railway was recently taken into public ownership by the Labour Government, marking a significant shift in management.

  • SWR has apologized for the disruption caused by the incident, which follows their recent nationalization, and has advised passengers to monitor updates.

  • Despite the rail disruptions, early morning road conditions in London remain clear, though the overall network is under strain.

Summary based on 21 sources


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