On Sunday, 13th July, Network Rail will be undertaking urgent engineering works on the Brighton Main Line.

This crucial work will result in the closure of all four tracks north of Gatwick Airport. No trains will be running between Gatwick Airport and East Croydon, and in some parts of Surrey.

Network Rail needs to replace deteriorating switches and crossings so that trains can change tracks at Stoats Nest Junction between Purley and Coulsdon South.

They are advising that passengers plan ahead and allow a significant amount of extra time when travelling.

Those wanting to travel between London and Gatwick Airport should use Southern trains to travel on the bus services towards Gatwick Airport.

Those travelling between London and the South Coast should travel on services to/from East Grinstead, where there will be a replacement bus service for onward services.

Between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, direct Southern trains will run on an alternative route, which will take much longer.

Between East Croydon and Redhill/ Tattenham Corner and between Redhill and Tonbridge, there will be replacement buses in place.

Spaces may be limited on some bus services, and queuing will be in place, so extra time should be left while travelling, especially if catching a flight from the airport.

Journey planners will update with revised services from the 5th July.

Further information and updates can be found on the Thameslink and Southern websites.

“We know closing the railway is frustrating, and we’re really sorry for the disruption this causes. We always try to avoid doing this kind of work during the summer, but replacing this section of track is essential to keep services running safely and reliably.

“If we don’t do the work now, there’s a risk we’d have to bring in speed restrictions or even close the line at short notice, which would mean even bigger delays to passenger and freight services.

“The Brighton Main Line is usually very busy, so if you’re travelling on Sunday 13 July, please plan ahead and check before you travel as your journey will take longer.”

Lucy McAuliffe, Network Rail’s Sussex route director