Network Rail has issued a travel advisory for passengers at Birmingham New Street, Birmingham Moor Street, and Birmingham Snow Hill stations, as the city prepares to bid farewell to its legendary son, Ozzy Osbourne.
Fans traveling to pay their respects on Wednesday, July 30, have been cautioned that train services will experience increased congestion. Osbourne, the iconic former frontman of Black Sabbath, passed away on July 22 at the age of 76, just weeks after his highly publicized return to the stage at Villa Park.
The funeral procession for the music icon is expected to attract thousands of onlookers throughout Birmingham, prompting the rail network’s warning.
A spokesperson for Network Rail said, “Passengers are being urged to plan ahead, check before they travel, and allow plenty of time to make their journeys. Extra station staff will be on hand to assist travelers and guide them to the city center to view the procession.”
Elizabeth Graham, station manager at Birmingham New Street, remarked, “As Birmingham pays its respects and celebrates the life of its favorite son, we will have extra staff around throughout the day to help everyone get in and out of the city center as easily as possible. It’s important that passengers plan ahead and allow plenty of time for their journeys and to reach their destinations. Always check before you travel with National Rail Enquiries or your train operator for the latest information before you set off.”
Lucy Wootton, head of the Grand Rail Collaboration, which includes train operators servicing Birmingham, noted, “We’re expecting the rail network to be busier than normal with thousands of fans heading into the city to say a final goodbye to Ozzy. Make sure you plan ahead, allow plenty of time for your journey and please be patient and kind to your fellow passengers and railway staff.”
Additionally, it is important to note that no trains are currently operating on the Cross City north line between Birmingham New Street and Lichfield Trent Valley or between Birmingham New Street and Tamebridge Parkway, with bus services in place between all stations. Both routes are expected to resume full service on Monday, August 4, according to Network Rail. Travelers can find the latest travel updates at www.nationalrail.co.uk or on X at @NationalRailEnq.
