London Tramlink services have been suffering delays throughout the day on Friday 17th
February after 2538 derailed on the approach to East Croydon tramstop. The incident happened at about 0630 when the tram was approaching East Croydon from the east (from Sandilands) and occurred at low speeds as the tram was slowing for the stop. No injuries were reported.
According to eye witnesses on the Croydon Tramlink Yahoo! Group 2538 was heading
for the usual westbound platform at East Croydon – for those unfamiliar with the layout at East Croydon there are three platforms with westbound trams usually directed to the left hand side of an island platform – and the front section was directed that way with middle and rear sections seemingly being sent towards the centre platform. The bogie on the central section of the tram (known as the C unit) derailed.
Transport for London and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch have both launched an
investigation into the incident which delayed the rerailing process. The London Underground Emergency Recovery Unit was sent to the scene to assist with rerailing 2538.
Ironically this was the first day that tram services resumed through central Croydon
following the recent track upgrade work but it is worth pointing out that there were no major works at this location during this period.
Trams from Wimbledon were running through to Wellesley Road where they were terminating. The trams were then running out of service to Dingwall Road (just short of East Croydon tramstop and the location of a temporary tramstop a few years ago) before using the crossover to head back westbound. They were re-entering passenger service at George Street to return to Wimbledon. For trams heading from Beckenham Junction, Elmers End and New Addington the western terminus became Sandilands with tickets being accepted on local bus services to bridge the gap.
Services resumed normal operation shortly after 1600 once 2538 had been rerailed
and another tram was used to test that the points were working correctly.