Major train services in and out of Birmingham have been thrown into chaos following the discovery of a historic explosive device near the railway line. The incident has led to significant delays and a swift evacuation to ensure public safety.
Device Discovered at Trading Estate
The alert was raised on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, after an old mortar device, believed to be from wartime, was found at the Duddeston Mill Trading Estate. The estate is located on Duddeston Mill Road in the Washwood Heath area of Birmingham.
Emergency services, including a specialist bomb disposal unit, were immediately dispatched to the scene. As a precaution, authorities carried out an evacuation and established a substantial 100-metre exclusion zone around the location to mitigate any potential risk.
Widespread Travel Disruption
The discovery has had a severe knock-on effect on rail travel across the region. Train services heading out of Birmingham New Street station are experiencing serious disruptions and delays. Multiple stations are affected, with passengers advised to check with their train operator before travelling and to allow extra time for their journeys.
The proximity of the device to the railway infrastructure necessitated immediate safety measures, directly impacting the flow of services on one of the country's busiest rail hubs.
Ongoing Response and Investigation
Specialist teams are currently on-site assessing and dealing with the unstable ordnance. The focus remains on safely disposing of the device with minimal further disruption. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the lasting legacy of past conflicts on modern infrastructure and community safety.
Commuters and residents are urged to follow the latest advice from transport police and local authorities while the operation continues.
