Check before you travel over Easter weekend

Network Rail says improvement works will affect some services

Author: Adam GoacherPublished 8th Apr 2022

Anyone planning on travelling on the Sussex to London mainline over Easter weekend is being encouraged to check before travelling.

Network Rail is continuing with work on a ÂŁ160 million improvement project to improve signalling between London Victoria and East Croydon.

Work will also be carried out at Gatwick, which will affect Gatwick Express services.

Network Rail’s route director for Sussex, Katie Frost, said: “I realise this stretch of track seems to be closed a lot lately – but there’s a good reason for that. Major investment always means there is a degree of disruption while the work is done and we are midway through that process now. The importance of the East Croydon to Victoria route with commuters means it’s a tough one for us to close outside of weekends and holidays, so this is the least-worst option for everyone.

“However, the equipment we are installing will be more reliable and the project will also reduce everyday delays through new designs of track and signalling.”

Southern’s Customer Services Director Chris Fowler said: “Network Rail have worked closely with us to time this vital modernisation for the least possible inconvenience to our customers. Tickets will be accepted on relevant Tube and bus services between Victoria, Clapham and Balham, and on the Tube between Victoria and London Bridge.

"We’ve also arranged replacement buses between Clapham Junction and either Balham or East Croydon, as required, for local journeys in south London. Other Southern routes will be affected, including Brighton services, so we urge customers to check details and plan their journeys in advance.”

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