Four routes connecting the UK’s second busiest airport are set to close this weekend, potentially causing chaos for travellers. Significant engineering work means bus replacements are in place for services on the Southern, Thameslink, and Gatwick Express networks this Sunday. The Brighton Main Line between Gatwick Airport and Brighton will be subject to major engineering work.
Network Rail said the works will force the closure of all four tracks on the line, meaning no trains will operate between Gatwick Airport and Brighton, Hove, Lewes, or Horsham. Lucy McAuliffe, Network Rail’s Sussex route director, said: “We know closing the railway is frustrating, and we are sorry for the disruption this causes.
“This work is essential for us as we try and prevent speed restrictions or emergency closures occurring in the future, which would cause even bigger delays at these locations and on the wider rail network.
“Thank you for your understanding, and please do plan ahead and check before you travel if you are travelling on Sunday 30 November, as your journey will take longer.”
If you’re planning to travel from Brighton to London on Sunday, Network Rail strongly recommends using the diverted Southern train service that will operate between Brighton and London Victoria.
This service will stop at Hove, Shoreham-by-Sea, Worthing, Angmering, Littlehampton, Horsham and Clapham Junction.
Passengers travelling by replacement buses between Brighton, Lewes, Haywards Heath, and Gatwick Airport will need to switch buses at Three Bridges and take a separate shuttle bus service to Gatwick Airport.
The closure will allow Network Rail to carry out a significant work, including replacing sections of track near Crawley, at Three Bridges, and between Copyhold Junction and the Ouse Valley viaduct.
Maintenance will be conducted at level crossings across the line and drainage systems and Wivelsfield.
Jenny Saunders, Customer Services Director for Govia Thameslink Railway, said: “Any of our customers travelling between the coast and Gatwick this Sunday should please take note that this essential work is going to extend their journeys considerably.
“Please plan ahead at nationalrail.co.uk and check live running information online before you leave for the station.”
