Written questions

Railways: Weather

Commons · Question 25056 · Tabled 28 Aug 2026 · Department for Transport · Official record

Answered 8 Sep 2026

Question

Asked by Edward Morello

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of soil moisture deficit on railway services in West Dorset.

Answer

Answered by Keir Mather, 8 Sep 2026

We recognise the significant impact that soil moisture deficit can have on the West of England Line. The route was constructed in the mid-19th century, and many of its embankments were built using excavated material from nearby cuttings. Modern understand...