Eastbourne to London Bridge rail service reinstated following campaign
A direct rail service from Eastbourne to London Bridge has been reinstated following a campaign.
The rail service, which was withdrawn in 2020 following the reduction in usage during the pandemic, is set to return on Monday, December 15.
It comes following a campaign from Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde.
Mr Babarinde said: "I am delighted that our campaign to restore the direct train service between Eastbourne and London Bridge has been successful - this is a massive win for our town.
"During Covid-19, this service was withdrawn due to falling passenger numbers. Which at the time, that made sense, but it left commuters like myself with only one option: London Victoria. While that works for some, for many it’s often the wrong side of the city.
“And it wasn’t just a problem for those who work in the capital.
"I made improving local transport one of my key priorities when I was elected as your MP, because I know just how important it is for our coastal economy and local businesses.
“A huge thank you to everyone who backed the campaign, both in person and online.
"Your support made all the difference and showed just how vital strong transport links are for our town. I’m also grateful to Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) for their cooperation throughout this process.”
Mr Babarinde said his next campaign focuses on ‘improving safety in and around stations and onboard trains’.
The London Bridge service will depart from Eastbourne Railway Station at 6.47am and arrive in London at 8.25am.
In celebration of the new service, speeches and a ribbon cutting ceremony will take place from 6.15am on Monday.