Croydon tram crash line reopens after seven killed in derailment

Tram crash: The line has reopened nine days after the tragedy
BBC/ITN

Tram services in Croydon have started running again, nine days after the fatal crash that killed seven passengers.

Transport for London restored services around lunchtime but with additional speed restrictions at the Sandilands junction where the early-morning tram left the track on Wednesday last week.

The decision to restart services comes after investigators revealed the tram was travelling at 43.5mph as it left the tracks - almost four times the 12.5mph speed restriction in place at the bend.

Driver Alfred Dorris had slowed from 50mph but was unable to keep it on the tracks.

An interim report from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch found there was no malfunctioning of the braking system and no track failure.

Mr Dorris, 42, from Beckenham, was arrested at the scene and was questioned on suspicion of manslaughter before being bailed until May.

Victims: l-R Dorota Rynkiewicz, Dane Chinnery, Phil Seary, and Mark Smith

It is understood that establishing if he was asleep or had blacked out are lines of inquiry.

A TfL statement said: “Following the tragic events in Croydon last week, tram services have today resumed across the whole tram network.

"Prior to resuming additional speed restrictions and associated signage have been introduced near Sandilands. These precautionary measures have also been implemented at three other locations on the tram network.

Tragedy: Scores of tributes have been laid for the victims
PA

"Engineers have repaired all track and other equipment and have run trams over the repaired section.

"TfL has carried out a thorough safety assessment and has taken the advice of an independent panel of tram experts as part of a rigorous safety assurance process before resuming the service."

Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “The tram is re-opening in Croydon today after I received confirmation from TfL that all the recommendations from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch’s Interim Report have been implemented, and I have had further guarantees from a panel of four independent experts. TfL have gone over and above the report’s recommendations, and this includes introducing new speed restrictions on other parts of the route.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the friends and families of those who lost loved ones and all those who were injured. We continue to work with Croydon Council to provide all the support we can for those affected.”

The reopening comes as the widow of one of the seven killed said TfL’s offer to pay for their funerals was a “marketing stunt”.

Marilyn Logan, who lost husband Philip, told LBC radio: “They could give me a million pounds, but it wouldn’t be enough.

"A little letter addressed to me, or a telephone call for me, that would have gone a million miles.”

"Loving husband": Robert Huxley died in the Croydon tram tragedy
British Transport Police

Mike Brown, London's Transport Commissioner, said: "We are doing everything we can to support the families and all those affected at this incredibly difficult time for them.

"This includes covering funeral costs and travel expenses for relatives. The TfL Sarah Hope line is available 24 hours a day to provide advice on a whole range of matters and immediate financial and other support."

Victims: Donald Collett (left) and Philip Logan were among the seven dead
British Transport Police

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