Croydon trams damaged by unknown debris on line

Trams in Croydon have been taken out of service due to damaged wheels, according to Transport for London (TfL).

Engineers say debris from the track caused the damage, but despite an inspection, they were unable to find exactly what the debris was.

TfL says large parts of the network are now closed and passengers should expect major disruption to the rest of the service.

TfL says it is not sure what could have caused the extensive damage, but has ruled out vandalism.

It says a dozen trams are believed to have been damaged.

This means most of the tram network is closed, with only a reduced service between Wimbledon and Reeves Corner.

A TfL spokesman said: “A number of our trams have unfortunately suffered wheel damage from debris on a section of track, meaning we are currently operating a significantly reduced service across London’s tram network .

“This impact is likely to affect services over the weekend and beyond while we repair the wheels, but our priority is to get the trams back to safety as quickly as possible.”

They added: “We are sorry for the disruption this is causing customers and are increasing local bus services so everyone can still get around.

“We advise anyone wishing to travel to the area to check before travelling, consider alternative routes and allow extra time to complete their journey.”

It comes as tram engineers ended a five-day strike over pay disparities.

TfL says the trams are waiting in depots to be repaired but had no engineers available.

He says he cannot estimate how long the tram service will be affected.