Rotherham Central station reopens after Storm Franklin flood

Rotherham Central station has reopened after being overwhelmed with water during Storm Franklin – the third storm to hit the railway in a week.

Network Rail’s expert teams worked through the night to fix and test the tracks so the railway could reopen on Wednesday morning.

Engineers have spent three days pumping water away from the railway between Aldwarke and Tinsley. As water levels reduced, further damage was uncovered and this has required additional repairs. 

Rail passengers will be able to call at Rotherham Central station once again with a normal train service resumed from 10am. Tram Train services between Tinsley and Parkgate will also back in action. Passengers are advised to continue to check before travelling via National Rail Enquiries or their train operator.

The pre-emptive decision to close the station was made on Saturday 19 February based on the Environmental Agency’s river level readings at the time. By acting before any flooding hit the station, Network Rail engineers were able to remove critical equipment from the ground, which has proved crucial to reducing the impact of flood damage.

Matt Rice, North & East Route Director for Network Rail said: “Storms Franklin, Dudley and Eunice have brought relentless challenges for the railway over the last week, including significant flooding in Rotherham.

“Our teams have worked 24/7 to pump water away from the tracks and work towards getting the railway back up and running for passengers in South Yorkshire. I’d like to thank people for bearing with us as we deliver a safe and reliable railway.”

Photo credit: Network Rail

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