Havant re-signalling works – October 2026
We’re carrying out essential signalling and infrastructure work in the Havant area during the October half-term.
We are completing essential engineering work on the railway between Havant and Petersfield. The work is part of our £120 million Havant re-signalling programme, the next phase of the wider Portsmouth Direct Upgrade.
How will this affect my journey?
To carry out this work safely, we need to close sections of the railway at different times between Saturday 24 October and Sunday 1 November 2026.
Replacement buses will operate on different routes and dates during the works.
Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October
On Saturday 24 October, buses will replace trains between:
- Havant and Southampton Central
On Sunday 25 October, buses will replace trains between:
- Havant and Southampton Central
- Guildford and Petersfield
Monday 26 to Friday 30 October
Buses will replace trains between:
- Petersfield and Portsmouth Harbour
- Chichester and Portsmouth Harbour
- Chichester and Southampton Central
Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November
On Saturday 31 October, buses will replace trains between:
- Haslemere and Havant
On Sunday 1 November, buses will replace trains between:
- Guildford and Havant
Other services will continue to operate around the affected area, but journeys will be different from normal so please check before you travel.
What are we doing?
The Havant re-signalling programme will replace ageing signalling and interlocking equipment in the Havant area and modernise the way the railway is controlled.
During the October closure, our teams will carry out a wide range of signalling and infrastructure work, including installing new signalling equipment, cables and trackside technology.
The work includes installing new axle counters, automatic warning system (AWS) and train protection and warning system (TPWS) equipment, alongside cable route refurbishment and other associated works. We’ll also carry out preparatory work for the wider re-signalling programme at locations between Petersfield and Havant.
Why do we need to close the railway?
Some of the work can only be carried out safely when trains are not running.
We’re bringing together a large programme of signalling, cable and infrastructure work during the planned closure. Carrying out this work together means our teams can complete essential upgrades in a concentrated period, reducing the need for repeated closures in the future. The work is being delivered in stages as part of the wider Havant re-signalling programme.
What should I do before travelling?
The impact on train services will vary depending on the date and your journey.
If you’re travelling between Saturday 24 October and Sunday 1 November, please check your journey before you travel.
Further information about our work will be shared here. For the latest travel information visit National Rail Enquiries or your train operator.
Getting in touch
If you have questions or feedback about the work, please visit our Contact us page or call our 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.