Following a 9 day closure for vital engineering works, the Brighton Mainline (BML) has returned to service on time.

Over 250 engineers at 26 sites have been working around the clock to complete the biggest upgrade between Brighton and Three Bridges in over 30 years.

Over the 9 day closure of the line, Network Rail and it’s partners completed the majority of the £67 million investment work to one of the UK’s least reliable routes. The work included track, signalling, and drainage improvements.

On Monday (25th February) morning, some 300,000 passengers returned to cleaner and brighter stations, with Southern, Thameslink, and Network Rail taking the opportunity to carry out a number of improvements at various stations along the BML.

A more detailed breakdown of the work carried out:

• Drainage improvements in Balcombe Tunnel,
• Renewal of Balcombe Tunnel Jn,
• Complete renewal of lineside signalling and power systems between Hayward’s Heath and Preston Park,
• Refurbishment of Balcombe, Hayward’s Heath, Wivelsfield, Hassocks, Preston Park, Plumpton, and Cooksbridge stations; with more over the coming weeks.

The independent passenger watchdog Transport Focus praised the extensive passenger awareness campaign leading up to the 9-day closure, with more than three-quarters of passengers making alternative travel arrangements, working from home, or taking annual leave.

Network Rail has released a time-lapse video of the work they carried out at Balcombe Tunnel Jn, see that here.

Further engineering works along the BML are set to be carried out over five weekends between March and May 2019. For up to date travel information visit nationalrail.co.uk.

What did the officials say?

Keith Jipps, Go Via Thameslink’s Infrastructure Director said:

“We’re pleased to welcome passengers back and I apologise for anyone that has been inconvenienced during these essential works and I am grateful for their patience throughout this challenging project.

“Working with our partners at Network Rail and our contractors and suppliers, together we have successfully overseen one of the biggest rail replacement services ever, with a temporary bus hub at Three Bridges, 240 buses being driven by 530 drivers and nearly 300 additional staff to help passengers and keep them moving.

“Members of staff across both organisations and our suppliers have been a great credit to the rail industry and the great feedback our passengers have given us recognises what a great job our people have done. The amount of work that has been carried out whilst the line was blocked has been massive and we will see the benefits by providing better punctuality and reliable services for our passengers.”

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