Investigation Concludes into Norfolk Train Derailment Incident
An investigation into the Norfolk train derailment reveals tree management issues
Norfolk, Roudham Heath, Train Derailment, Forestry England, RAIB
Norfolk: Just before 9 PM on February 6, 2024, an East Midlands train derailed. It was carrying 31 passengers when it hit two fallen trees on the track at Roudham Heath.
The train traveled about 680 meters before stopping. One person had a minor injury, but everyone else was fine.
The line was closed for a day to repair the train and tracks. The train and tracks were damaged during the incident.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) started an investigation. They found the trees had fallen from land managed by Forestry England.
The first tree to fall was a twin-stemmed pine. It lost its root anchorage due to saturated sandy soil. This tree landed on an adjacent oak tree, causing it to fall as well.
RAIB noted that the pine tree’s growth and its closeness to the railway made it likely to fall onto the tracks.
Inspections by Network Rail and Forestry England had not found any issues. No actions were taken to prevent the trees from falling.
RAIB concluded by asking both organizations to review their tree inspection processes. They should also consider how high soil saturation affects tree stability.