Network Rail is working to repair damage to the Tunbridge Wells to Tonbridge line which occurred on Monday 1st February 2021.
Sensors placed in the area detected land movement, prompting engineers to make a visit to the site and check the track.
They found a landslip had compromised the line, with work underway to protect 150 metres of track. Originally built 160 years ago, foundations for the embankment are not great, leading to the following work to be carried out:
- Soil Nailing
- Netting affected area
- Removal of 5000 tonnes of soil
Network Rail Route Director for Kent Fiona Taylor said: “I'm so sorry we're having to put passengers in this position. We looked long and hard at the possibility of opening the railway sooner. However, it is absolutely essential that our railway is safe to travel on and, by taking this extra time, we can reinforce and protect the line for years to come. We've had exceptionally wet conditions this winter driven by climate change and have suffered a number of landslips across the Southern region. This is a long-term challenge we're facing and by taking another week to do this work, we can protect the line for generations to come. Thank you to our passengers and lineside neighbours for their patience and understanding whilst we carry out these critical works.”
Southeastern's Train Services Director Scott Brightwell said: “There is never an ideal time to close the railway but this work by Network Rail is essential to ensure that this stretch of track can reopen for trains as soon as possible, allowing passengers' journeys to continue without delay. We'll make sure that changes to journey times and details of replacement bus services are well communicated through our website, National Rail Enquiries, and through our Twitter account @Se_Railway, so please check before you travel.”
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Looks like landslips on railway lines is becoming a common threat. Due to ever changing weather conditions and global warming.