Passengers traveling between Bolton and Blackburn encounter delays today, Sunday, March 8, due to loose bricks in a tunnel near Darwen, Lancashire.
Impact on Services
The Bolton to Blackburn line operates under speed restrictions, forcing trains to reduce velocity on all lines. This affects routes linking Greater Manchester and Lancashire, with potential delays reaching 40 minutes, alongside possible cancellations or route changes.
Timeline and Response
Officials first noted the issue around 10am, with disruptions projected to persist until at least 12:00.
A National Rail spokesperson stated: “A speed restriction in a tunnel between Bolton and Blackburn means that trains will have to run at reduced speed on all lines. As a result, services between these stations may be delayed up to 40 minutes, cancelled or revised. Disruption is expected until 12:00.”
Further updates will follow as the situation develops.

