Train overspeeding at Trowell
Investigation into a train overspeeding at Trowell, Nottinghamshire, 4 May 2026.
Forward-facing CCTV from the train involved showing the junction signal set for the diverging route (courtesy of Northern).
At around 13:47 on 4 May 2026, the 12:09 Leeds to Nottingham service, operated by Northern, was involved in an overspeeding incident at Trowell North and South Junctions in Nottinghamshire.
At these junctions, the train was routed over five sets of points for a diverging route which had a permitted speed of 30 mph (48 km/h). The train traversed the first set of points at 70 mph (112 km/h) and was still travelling at 45 mph (72 km/h) when it reached the last set of points. The signals on the approach to the junctions were displaying the correct indications for the diverging route.
The train’s speed over the junctions caused it to lurch sideways. This led to some passengers being thrown from their seats and others falling to the floor, resulting in a number of minor injuries. The train did not derail during the incident.
Our investigation will seek to identify the sequence of events which led to the overspeeding. It will also consider:
- the way in which the train was driven
- any factors which may have influenced the actions of the driver of the train
- the condition of the signalling system at the time of the incident
- the nature of the reported injuries
- any underlying management factors.
Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.
We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.
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