The Llangollen and Corwen Railway has announced temporary changes to its services this week following forecasts of extreme temperatures across North Wales. Following discussions between the railway’s operations, engineering and safety teams, the decision has been taken to cancel Heritage Railcar services scheduled for Thursday and Friday.
The railway has stressed that the decision has been made with the safety and wellbeing of passengers, volunteers and staff the overriding priority.
David Hennigan, Trust Manager at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway, said, “Nobody likes cancelling trains, and we know many visitors will be disappointed by this decision. However, the safety of our volunteers, staff and passengers must always come first. We have carefully considered the forecasts and discussed the situation at length across the railway. Whilst our volunteers are incredibly dedicated, we have a responsibility to ensure they are not exposed to unnecessary risks during periods of extreme weather.
“We will continue to monitor conditions closely over the coming days and will review the position as necessary.”
The railway has confirmed that services will continue to operate over the weekend, albeit to a reduced timetable. Saturday and Sunday’s services will be operated by the railway’s popular Class 26 diesel locomotive.
Mr Hennigan added, “I would like to thank our volunteers and passengers for their understanding and support. Heritage railways rely on volunteers, and their welfare must remain at the heart of every decision we take. The good news is that visitors will still be able to enjoy a journey through the beautiful Dee Valley this weekend behind our Class 26 diesel locomotive.”
The railway has also moved to reassure visitors that its hugely popular Classic Transport Weekend, taking place next weekend, remains unaffected. The event will see hundreds of classic vehicles descend on Glyndyfrdwy, alongside heritage train services operating through the Dee Valley.
Mr Hennigan said, “We want to reassure visitors that the Classic Transport Weekend is not affected by these changes and planning for the event continues at full speed.
“It is one of the highlights of our calendar and brings together railway enthusiasts, classic vehicle owners, families and visitors from across the region. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to what promises to be another fantastic weekend.”
Customers with advance bookings affected by the cancelled services will be contacted directly by the railway.
For the latest service information, passengers are encouraged to monitor the railway’s website and social media channels.
