Network Rail and train operators in the south east are urging passengers to plan ahead over the Easter period as a major programme of railway upgrades in south London, Kent and Sussex is delivered.
While more than 90% of the railway will remain open over the Easter period, Network Rail’s engineers will complete a number of critical upgrades for the continued safe and reliable running of the railway, including:
- The rebuilding of a busy railway junction at Battersea, including the laying around 6km of new signalling and telecommunications cables.
- Installing a new signalling system at Lewisham.
- Laying over 5km of new track between Eastbourne and Hastings, and installing a new level crossing at Pevensey.
- New track on the Bromley North branch line.
- Landslip prevention works at Chislet, between Canterbury West and Minster.
Once complete, this work will further improve the rail network by allowing more trains to run, increase the speed that trains can travel at and improve reliability to reduce future delays for passengers.
Speaking for the Southeastern-Network Rail Alliance, David Davidson, Network Rail’s Kent route director, said: “This Easter we are continuing to upgrade the railway for passengers with major projects in the Battersea and Lewisham areas, and between Eastbourne and Hastings.
“We also need to take the opportunity to do some landslip prevention works at Chislet, on the line between Canterbury West and Minster, where because of increased rainfall as a result of climate change, the railway cutting is unlikely to withstand another winter. Doing this work over Easter means we can keep the railway open for longer, and fewer weekend closures would be needed in the near future.
“While we are reminding people to plan ahead and check their journey, more than 90% of the network is open and trains are running. If your route is affected, bus replacements are available, and tickets will be accepted on alternative services.
“Thank you to customers for your patience while we work to modernise track, signalling, stations, structures and earthworks, keeping people moving for decades to come. This is the least worst time to complete these works and continue to invest in our growing railway as part of our continued drive to improve performance.”
Image credit: Network Rail
