Football fans heading to Brighton vs Leeds warned of rail disruption and busier stations
Fans travelling to Brighton and Hove Albion's home match against Leeds United have been warned to expect busier trains and stations, amid disruption caused by a track safety inspection.
A safety inspection is taking place between Haywards Heath and Lewes, with the southbound line blocked.
The disruption is affecting trains travelling from London Victoria towards Eastbourne and Ore, with services being diverted after Haywards Heath into Brighton before continuing along the coast to Eastbourne.
Southern Rail issued a specific warning to fans travelling to the match at the Amex Stadium.
The company’s post on X (formerly Twitter) read: “Travelling to Brighton & Hove AFC v LUFC?
“Brighton, Falmer and Lewes Stations will be busier than usual. Queuing systems are in place. Please take care when moving through our stations.
“Trains will ultimately be busier than usual. Travel earlier to make sure you board your intended service.”
The diversionary route could add around 30 minutes to journeys, while passengers have been advised to allow an additional 45 minutes because of delays and knock-on disruption.
Network Rail engineers were on site inspecting the tracks from around 1.30pm on Saturday (September 5).
Southern has warned that some services towards Eastbourne may terminate at Gatwick Airport to prevent Brighton station becoming further congested.
This means passengers travelling from Gatwick Airport towards Eastbourne may need to change for a connection via Brighton, with fewer services operating on the route.
The disruption also means there are currently no southbound services from Plumpton and Cooksbridge.
Football fans have been advised to check their journey before setting off and allow extra time to reach the stadium.
The Premier League fixture between Brighton and Leeds United is due to kick off at the Amex Stadium at 3pm.
Passengers have been urged to check National Rail for the latest service information before travelling.
To claim compensation, for journeys delayed by 15 minutes or more, visit: https://www.southernrailway.com/help-and-support/delay-repay-compensation