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Investigation into the derailment of a passenger train near Dryclough Junction, Halifax, 05 February 2011

The RAIB is investigating a derailment that occurred when train 2T02, the 05:55 hrs service from Hebden Bridge to Leeds, struck rubble as it approached Dryclough Junction in Halifax.  The train, which was staffed by two crew members and carrying eight passengers, is believed to have been travelling at about 30 mph when it approached the point of impact.  The train was a Class 158 two-car diesel multiple unit and all wheels of the leading bogies of both carriages derailed.

There were no reported injuries and the passengers were taken from the site by another train.  Damage was caused to the derailed train, particularly to equipment mounted beneath its floor.

The preliminary examination of the site identified that the rubble had fallen from a section of dry stone retaining wall that had collapsed.  The retaining wall had been constructed along the top of the steep sided rock cutting at this location, behind which runs a public pavement and a local road.

(http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources/2011-02-05%20Halifax%20081.jpg)

Prior to the collapse there was evidence that the local authority had become aware that the pavement was deforming due to subsidence and had then taken steps to close off the immediate area to members of the public.

The investigation will include a review of the information available to all parties prior to the collapse and the allocation of responsibilities for inspection, maintenance and risk management of structures of this type.

The RAIB^s investigation is independent of any investigations by the safety authority (the Office of Rail Regulation).

The RAIB will publish a report, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of its investigation. This report will be available on the RAIB website.