STEAM train company West Coast Railways has had its network ban lifted after improving safety following a high-speed near miss at Wootton Bassett junction in March – despite an ongoing criminal investigation.

The unprecedented suspension imposed by Network Rail came after one of the WCR locomotives overran a danger signal on the approach to Wootton Bassett, missing a collision with a high-speed First Great Western Service by seconds.

As the company has now appointed an interim head of safety and updated its theirsafety management system, Network Rail is are satisfied it they can operate safely, and will carry out another review them in three months time.

Paul McMahon, the freight director at Network Rail, wrote to WCR last week: “I can confirm that as you have now satisfactorily addressed all of the actions we set out in our suspension notice of 1st April 1, we will lift the suspension of your track access.

“We welcome the commitment West Coast Railways has made to improving safety management; the changes to your safety management system and the three new roles being introduced to strengthen safety leadership and corporate governance. 

“We recognise and welcome that you intend to put in place a phased return of services to allow you and your most experienced staff to implement your new procedures before use with a wider range of services.

“We look forward to working closely with you and your new leadership team. 

“This will include reviewing with you in three months the progress made by you in working within your new governance structure and safety management system.”

The Office of Rail and Road is are continuing its with their investigations into what went wrong in the at the signal passed and danger incident on March 7 when the signal was passed.

could involve criminal sanctions and revocation of the company’s safety certificate.

An ORR spokesman said: “Following ORR’s initial investigation, West Coast Railways has established improved safety procedures. ORR inspectors will be on site examining safety arrangements ahead of WCR running passenger services. 

“These checks will ensure the company has introduced the necessary changes, such as improved safety procedures, enhanced management systems and appropriate staff competence regimes.

“ORR will continue to monitor WCR services for assurance that they are operating safely.”