The United Kingdom’s Rail Accident Investigation Branch found that the driver of a Grand Central train from Sunderland to London King’s Cross failed to respond correctly to a signal indicating a diverging route with a lower speed limit.
On May 4, 2023, the train sped over Spital Junction near Peterborough at 66 mph, significantly exceeding the permitted speed of 30 mph, later reducing to 25 mph. This caused sudden sideways movements in the train’s coaches, resulting in minor injuries as some passengers were thrown from their seats.
The driver expected a straight-ahead route and did not adjust speed accordingly. RAIB’s analysis also suggested that the junction indicator on the signal may not have been as noticeable as the main aspect contributing to the incident.
RAIB identified three key factors: insufficient training provided by Grand Central, lack of effective risk control by Network Rail and train operators since 2013, and inadequate management of the long distance between the signal and junction. A similar incident occurred at the same location in April 2022.
RAIB made four recommendations: enhanced driver training, improved safety processes by Network Rail and operators, reviewing signal brightness standards, and addressing LED signal degradation. The report also highlighted the need for comprehensive route risk assessments and effective staff competence management.
