Sussex train lines no longer blocked after Southern announces 'urgent repairs' in morning

The company has now said the problem is fixed.

Southern had announced on X at 7.48am: “The northbound line towards Haywards Heath is blocked.” They also said: “Services that run from Eastbourne / Ore towards London Victoria will be diverted via Brighton.”

People were able to find out more at www.southernrailway.com/service-updates/service-updates.

Southern continued: “If you’re travelling from Cooksbridge or Plumpton towards Haywards Heath and beyond. You will need to catch a service to Lewes and travel via Brighton. We recommend you allow an additional 30 minutes for your journey this morning. If you are travelling to Cooksbridge or Plumpton, from the direction of Lewes. You will have to stay on the train to Haywards Heath (via Brighton), where you can change for a return service to your station. Tickets are being accepted at no extra cost on Thameslink services between Brighton, Gatwick Airport and East Croydon. Our alternative route maps are here to assist with re-planning your journey. No trains can call at Cooksbridge and Plumpton in the direction of Haywards Heath. Trains travelling southbound towards Lewes can continue to run as normal. Please make sure to check your journey using live departure boards before arriving at the station.”

UPDATE: At 1.15pm Southern said: “This track defect has been fixed so services are able to run again between Lewes and Haywards Heath.” They said people who have been delayed by 15 minutes or more can claim Delay Repay at www.southernrailway.com/help-and-support/delay-repay-compensation.