Southern Rail: Explanations given for overnight disruption across Sussex
Train passengers across Sussex faced disruption on Wednesday night, following two separate incidents on the Southern network.
Around 8pm on July 1, trespassers on the railway between Brighton and Lewes forced all lines to be blocked, bringing trains to a standstill in both directions.
A Southern Rail social media alert read: “There were trespassers on the railway between Brighton and Lewes.
“All lines are now blocked between these stations and trains are at a stand. Delays and major alterations expected.”
Services were suspended through key stations including London Road (Brighton), Moulsecoomb and Falmer, with journeys between Brighton and destinations such as Eastbourne, Hastings, Seaford and Ore also affected.
Passengers already on board trains were advised to remain seated while the situation was brought under control. Once it was confirmed everyone was safe, the line reopened and services gradually resumed, although delays of around 30 minutes were reported as the network recovered.
Separately, disruption also hit the Horsham to Arundel line, where all lines were blocked earlier in the night. This was first reported, around 11.30pm.
Southern reported: “If you are travelling in either direction between Horsham and Arundel now, your journey will be delayed but you should still use your normal route to travel.”
Trains were delayed and some services were altered, including the last train to Portsmouth and Southsea, which was terminated early at Barnham with rail replacement buses arranged.
Although both incidents have now been resolved and services have returned to normal, Southern warned that some services may still have been subject to residual delays while timetables were reset.
Passengers affected by delays of 15 minutes or more may be eligible for compensation under the operator’s Delay Repay scheme.