Train services in Birmingham have been disrupted due to the finding of a wartime bomb near a trading estate. The old mortar device was discovered this morning, prompting the closure of rail lines between Birmingham New Street and Duddeston. An evacuation was conducted, and a 100-meter exclusion zone was established with a bomb disposal unit dispatched to the scene.
Although services have resumed across the network, delays are anticipated. The incident at Duddeston Mill Trading Estate in Washwood Heath caused significant disruptions earlier today. While all lines have now reopened, delays are expected to persist until at least 3pm.
CrossCountry services have reported improved conditions, with all lines fully operational after the earlier closures. Nonetheless, National Rail has cautioned that cancellations and delays remain possible following the wartime bomb discovery this morning.
Network Rail has indicated that disruption is likely to continue into the afternoon. A bomb disposal team is present at the scene, and a 100-meter exclusion zone is currently in effect. A spokesperson for Network Rail mentioned their collaboration with West Midlands Police in addressing the situation in Duddeston and assured ongoing updates as new information becomes available.
West Midlands Police confirmed the discovery of the old mortar device at Duddeston Mill Trading Estate, leading to evacuations and the implementation of a 100-meter cordon. The incident is contained within the site, with an EOD bomb disposal team on-site. The railway line at Duddeston is impacted by the exclusion zone, causing disruptions to rail services until the situation is resolved safely.