On Monday (26th January), the line between Horsham and Dorking was closed to repair a minor landslip at Ockley.

The line was expected to reopen by the 30th of January, but heavy rain has worsened the slip.

The soils became oversaturated, causing a 9 metre section of the embankment to slide out from under the tracks as a ‘rotational failure’.

This means trains cannot pass until repairs are made. Engineers have devised a new plan of action with 47 steel piles set to be installed to strengthen the section.

Disruption is therefore expected until the middle of February, with passengers advised to check before they travel due to major alterations being put in place.

Replacement buses will be in place, and local buses will accept tickets until the work is completed.

“This is a significant landslip which is already having an impact on our customers. While the line is closed and our teams carry out the repairs, some journeys will take much longer until the repairs are complete. I can only apologise for the disruption that customers are experiencing on this part of the network.  

“We need to stabilise the embankment, stopping it from moving, and then rebuild the railway where it has slid away. We’ll keep everyone informed of our progress and we will be working around the clock to ensure that the railway is reopened as quickly and as safely as possible. In the meantime, please do check before you travel.”

Network Rail Sussex route director Lucy McAuliffe