Answers on a postcard please....

[coupwotcoup]

..I heard on the radio the other day that because of signal failure, the branch line between Southminster and Wickford was suspended (with no bus replacement service either... good old One).
Now this got me thinking. Surely as a single track line why couldn't one train just do shuttle runs? Then again I suppose with a lot of level crossings on said route, the old 'elf and safety' thingy comes into play?

 

[me123]

Well, if another train was put onto the line accidently (which could happen too easily) a collision is very possible. And of course there's your level crossings.

Surprised there's no replacement buses, though.

 

[westcoaster]

you would need a pilotman and level crossing attendants to even get moving

 

[Mojo]

Trains on Severn Beach line are often getting cancelled or suspended, and you only get a taxi if you're at Temple Meads (all stations unstaffed), and you ask at the info desk.