A double decker bus crash in South Norwood has caused major disruption this afternoon after the vehicle collided with a low railway bridge, tearing its roof clean off.
The incident occurred around 12:30pm on the A215 Portland Road, close to Norwood Junction station, when the driver, believed to be a learner, misjudged the bridge’s clearance height.
Bus crashes under low bridge in South Norwood, leaving dramatic wreckage
Eyewitness footage captured the surreal aftermath of the double decker bus crash, showing the bus roof peeled away like the lid of a tin can. The lower half of the bus had managed to pass beneath the bridge, but the top deck was sheared off, dangling at the rear end of the vehicle.
Comedian Elliot Steel posted footage of the aftermath on social media, joking: “reckon he’ll get the job?” Another user on X added wryly: “You can’t park there sir.”
Reckon he’ll get the job? pic.twitter.com/tcAvG0PAsr
— Elliot Steel (@elliotsteelcom) June 5, 2025
The crash happened just ahead of the busy school run, forcing a full road closure between Manor Road and the A213 High Street. The A215 is a critical route, and the impact was immediate.
It is understood the bus was being used for driver training at the time of the accident. Fortunately, this suggests that the vehicle was likely empty, minimising the risk of injury. No serious injuries have been reported at this stage.
Following the double decker bus crash, multiple train services, including London Overground, Southern, and Thameslink, were brought to a standstill as a safety precaution. Though lines have since reopened, residual delays of up to 15 minutes are still expected between London Victoria, Croydon, Surrey and Islington.
Additionally, bus routes 130 and 197 have been diverted to avoid the affected area.
Emergency services cordoned off the section of road, and the clean-up operation remains ongoing. Transport for London has not yet confirmed how long the stretch will remain closed.
Local commuters and parents on the school run faced significant delays due to the incident.
Key Points:
- Double decker bus crash occurred at 12:30pm on A215 Portland Road.
- The roof was torn off after a collision with a low railway bridge.
- The bus was used for learner driver training; likely empty at the time of the crash.
- Rail services, including Thameslink and Southern temporarily halted.
- Bus routes 130 and 197 diverted; local road closures in place.
This double decker bus crash has once again raised concerns about bridge clearance warnings and signage in South London. As the investigation continues, residents and commuters are urged to avoid the area.
