Train services between Guildford and Havant will be suspended this coming weekend, Saturday, 18th and Sunday, 19th October, and for nine days starting on Saturday, 25th October.

The closure is to enable Network Rail engineers to complete upgrading the signalling on the Portsmouth Direct line between Farncombe and Petersfield.

Other work being undertaken as part of the signalling upgrade includes upgrading automatic half-barrier crossings to full-width barriers, installing CCTV or obstacle detection systems at some crossings, and installing miniature stop lights at footpath crossings for added safety.

The work will also affect road users at level crossings at the following locations and dates, where dedicated staff will be on site 24/7 to ensure the safety of road and rail users:

• Liss Common (Saturday, 27 September to Monday, 24 October).
• Kings Fernsden (Saturday, 4 October to Monday, 24 October).
• Princes Bridge (Saturday, 11 October to Tuesday, 25 October).
• Milford (Saturday, 18 October to Sunday, 2 November).
• Petersfield (night-time closure from 10 pm to 6 am from Saturday, 25 October to Sunday, 2 November)
• Liss (Sunday, 26 October to Sunday, 2 November).
• Sheet (Saturday, 25 October to Sunday, 2 November and Saturday, 8 November to Sunday, 9 November).
• Farncombe East (night-time closure from 10 pm to 6 am from Saturday, 25 October to Sunday, 2 November).
• Farncombe West (Saturday, 25 October to Thursday, 13 November).

Since the upgrade started, it has affected services on various sections of the line, such as last February between Guildford, Petersfield, and Havant.

“We appreciate that there is never a good time to close the railway, and we’re sorry for the disruption this will cause. However, these closures are essential to complete the vital upgrade of the Portsmouth Direct line. By carrying out the majority of work during the autumn half-term – when fewer people travel – we can minimise disruption while delivering long-term benefits. Drivers in the area will need to plan ahead, and will need to take alternative routes when the roads around level crossings are closed.” 

Mark Goodall, South Western Railway, Wessex Route Director