A fault on a train between St Albans and Mill Hill Broadway means some lines towards London are blocked. As a result, trains may be cancelled or delayed by up to 20 minutes. This is expected until 08:00.
Can you tell me more about the incident?
We've had a report of a fault on a train, and this is now causing delays to other services travelling through this area.
Normally, when a fault on a train occurs, Thameslink will gather details and report this to Fleet teams. If possible, the defect will be fixed promptly, and Thameslink will get the train on the way. Initial steps are designed to take around 10 minutes.
However, sometimes the fault cannot be fixed in this time frame. In this case, wherever possible, the train will be taken out of use and sent to a depot. This does take additional time, as the crew will need to make sure that everyone's managed to leave the train.
If this can't be done either, Thameslink will send specialist engineers to site, known as "fitters". Thameslink have fitters based in key locations around the network, 24 hours a day, and they are able to attend anywhere on the network. Once they are on site, Thameslink will then monitor progress updates and ensure that the railway can be reopened as promptly as possible.
Until the defective train can be moved, Thameslink will try to find a way to get other trains around the issue. This depends how many lines are available, and whether the signalling equipment is set up to allow trains to be routed around the problem. This is more often the case on major routes, but not always. Thameslink will work with Network Rail's controllers to decide how many more trains can be sent through the area, and if this isn't possible, Thameslink will see what alternative solutions are available to help you continue your journey.
Check before you travel:
You can check your journey using the National Rail Enquiries real-time Journey Planner.
Compensation:
You may be entitled to compensation if you experience a delay in completing your journey today. Please keep your train ticket and make a note of your journey, as both will be required to support any claim.