Engineering works at Southeastern train stations this Easter

Over the Bank Holiday weekend, running from March 29 until April 1, Southeastern customers are being urged to check before travelling, as buses are set to replace trains across parts of the railway network in south London as well as Kent and Sussex.

The works, carried out by Network Rail, are part of a major upgrade scheme as part of a wider £89 million programme.

Which stations are affected?

Hither Green

At Hither Green in south east London, work will be done to stabilise the embankment, with a 115m sheet pile wall installed to protect the railway from soil and other debris, along with refurbishment to the tracks.

Buses are set to replace trains running between Lewisham and Sidcup from Friday until Monday whilst works take place.

Affected stations:

Lewisham

Hither Green

Lee

Mottingham

New Eltham

Sidcup

Brixton Junction and Denmark Hill

Between Brixton Junction and Denmark Hill, work will be done over the Easter weekend to support the new signalling system, with the installation of a new signal gantry across the track.

This is part of a major upgrade Network Rail announced to upgrade the 1980s track and signalling system on the south London lines into Victoria station.

Affected stations:

Brixton

Denmark Hill

South Croydon

In the South Croydon area, work will commence at Whyteleafe level crossing, which will be upgraded with electrical circuits.

Affected stations:

Whyteleafe

Whyteleafe South

Balham Junction and Beckenham Junction

Between Balham and Beckenham Junction, work will be carried out to replace expired switches and crossings, and preparation work for the installation of new, future signalling systems.

Affected stations:

Balham

Streatham Hill

West Norwood

Gipsy Hill

Crystal Palace

Birkbeck

Beckenham Junction

Network Rail has advised passengers that buses will replace trains on some routes over the Bank Holiday weekend, with advice to check before travelling and to plan journeys in advance.

Jenny Saunders, GTR’s Customer Services Director, said: “We thank our customers for their understanding while Network Rail undertake these vital improvements.

“To help people travel over the Easter weekend, buses will replace trains on some routes, so please allow extra time when planning your journey, and double-check your route before setting off.”

In a statement, Southeastern advised customers that most lines would remain open during the Easter weekend.

Scott Brightwell, Southeastern’s Operations and Safety Director, said: “Most of our lines are open during the Easter weekend but Network Rail is carrying out engineering work on some parts of our route.

“Buses will replace trains between Lewisham and Sidcup from Friday to Monday, and there are a number of bus replacement services in place on Easter Sunday. On Good Friday and Easter Monday, we will be operating a Saturday service.

“Full details are on our website and timetables for the Bank Holiday are available in online journey planners, please check before you travel.”