Southern Rail: Delays hit Sussex trains with services delayed by up to 30 minutes
Train passengers are facing delays on two key Sussex routes this evening (Tuesday, September 15).
A safety inspection of the track is causing delays to trains in East Sussex.
Southern Rail said services are running at reduced speeds, with trains delayed by up to 30 minutes.
The operator said: “A safety inspection of the track near Glynde is causing disruption to trains between Eastbourne and Lewes. This is only affecting westbound trains.”
Passengers have been warned they ‘may face some delays or alterations’, and advised to allow at least an extra 30 minutes to complete their journey.
Southern said Network Rail engineers were attending after a possible issue with the track was reported.
The operator said: “There are various different types of defects, and the first advice usually comes from drivers or other staff travelling through the area.”
It added that response staff would check whether the track was ‘still supported correctly’, as well as inspecting the rails, fixings and metalwork.
Southern said: “Until this is done, trains have to run at a reduced speed in the affected direction. This is a necessary safety precaution.”
The disruption was initially expected to continue until around 7.15pm.
Meanwhile, a separate problem between Gatwick Airport and Purley is causing northbound trains to run at reduced speed.
Thameslink, Southern and Gatwick Express services travelling from Gatwick Airport towards Purley could be delayed by up to 20 minutes.
Southern said: “A problem currently under investigation between Gatwick Airport and Purley means trains have to run at a reduced speed on the line towards Purley.”
The disruption was reported at 6.50pm and is expected to continue until around 7.45pm.
The cause of the Gatwick problem is currently under investigation.
Southern said: “At the moment, we're working with local staff and colleagues at Network Rail to assess the situation.”
Passengers can continue to use their usual route but have been advised to allow an additional 20 minutes for their journey and check their trains before travelling.
To make a claim for compensation, visit: https://www.southernrailway.com/help-and-support/delay-repay-compensation