Hastings to Tunbridge Wells, and Hastings to Bexhill line closure
We carried out a major programme of improvement work between Tunbridge Wells, Hastings, and Bexhill from Saturday 25 October to Sunday 2 November 2025.
This nine-day closure allowed engineers to deliver vital upgrades to improve safety, reliability and resilience across the route.
What work took place?
Our engineers worked across multiple locations to deliver a wide range of improvements:
- Tunnel repairs: Brickwork and drainage upgrades in the Bo Peep and Hastings tunnels to prevent leaks and protect railway equipment.
- Track renewal: Replacement of old rails, sleepers and ballast between Etchingham and Mountfield, and between Castle Bridge and Riverhall to reduce faults and delays.
- Signalling upgrades: Replacement of moveable rails and track circuits at Frant and Wadhurst to improve train detection and reliability.
- Vegetation clearance: Removal of overgrown vegetation and installation of rock anchors near Mountfield tunnel and other key locations.
- Station improvements: Refurbishment of the footbridge at West St Leonards station to ensure continued safe access.
- Lineside clearance: Vegetation management between Strawberry Hill and Frant, and from Crowhurst to Mountfield to prevent debris and tree-related disruptions.
What are the benefits?
The work is part of our continued investment in the Hastings line, addressing long-standing challenges and delivering:
- Improved safety and reliability
- Reduced risk of delays and faults
- Enhanced resilience against weather and environmental impacts
- Better passenger experience through infrastructure upgrades.
How will the work affect me?
St Leonards Warrior Square station car park on St Johns Road will be closed to the public until Friday 14 November 2025 to facilitate site welfare facilities.
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Contact us
For more information or to get in touch with us, please contact us by visiting our contact us page or by calling our 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.