District line hit by severe delays after track fault near Gunnersbury

Severe delays are disrupting the District line after a track fault was detected near Gunnersbury station this morning. Transport for London (TfL) confirmed the issue and warned passengers to expect significant hold-ups while engineers work to restore normal service. The fault affects trains travelling between Richmond and Turnham Green, a key stretch for commuters in west London.

TfL said in a statement that the fault was identified shortly after 7:30 a.m. on 11 August 2026. Spokesperson Sarah Green told *This Is Local London* that teams were dispatched immediately, but the extent of the damage meant repairs would take several hours. "We apologise for the disruption and advise customers to check their journeys before travelling," Green said. No injuries or incidents involving passengers have been reported.

Read Next in London Travel News5 min read

Tube and DLR passengers can claim fare refunds after 15-minute delays

Barnet residents using Oyster or contactless may be owed money for Tube and DLR delays within TfL’s control

Impact on Barnet and west London

The delays are particularly acute for residents in Barnet who rely on the District line for connections to central London. Turnham Green station, a common interchange for those travelling from Richmond or Ealing, is operating with reduced services. Passengers heading to Heathrow Airport via the Piccadilly line are also affected, as the disruption ripples across the network.

Local councillor for Chiswick Riverside, John Todd, said the delays would cause frustration for constituents who depend on the line for work and school runs. "This is the second major fault on this stretch in three months," Todd said. "Residents need reliable transport, and TfL must explain why these issues keep happening." He added that he would raise the matter at the next Hounslow Council transport committee meeting on 25 August 2026.

Related Borough Coverage4 min read

Live facial recognition cameras start at Victoria Tube station on Tuesday

British Transport Police trial will run in signed areas with alternative routes for passengers

What passengers should do

TfL has urged passengers to use alternative routes, including the London Overground between Richmond and Clapham Junction, or buses such as the 27, 237, or H91. The Piccadilly line is running normally between Acton Town and Heathrow, providing an alternative for those travelling to the airport. However, TfL warned that stations along the affected stretch, including Gunnersbury and Kew Gardens, may experience overcrowding.

For Barnet residents, the disruption adds pressure to already busy routes. Those travelling from stations like Finchley Road or West Hampstead may find the Jubilee line a faster option to reach central London, though this will require additional changes. TfL has not yet confirmed whether refunds will be offered to passengers with season tickets affected by the delays.

What happens next

Engineers remain on site, but TfL has not provided an estimated time for when services will resume. A further update is expected by 2 p.m. on 11 August 2026. Passengers are advised to check TfL’s website or the TfL Go app for real-time updates. Hounslow Council has not yet indicated whether it will seek compensation from TfL for the disruption caused to local businesses.