Tonbridge to Wadhurst Improvements

Southeastern customers are advised to plan ahead over the autumn half-term as Network Rail carries out a major programme of railway improvements between Tonbridge and Wadhurst.

Project timeline

The main closure will take place from Saturday 24 October until Sunday 1 November 2026.

What work is taking place?

Grove Hill tunnel slab track renewal

At the heart of the programme is the renewal of specialist slab track through Grove Hill Tunnel, just south of Tunbridge Wells.

Unlike conventional railway track, which sits on sleepers supported by ballast, slab track uses rails fixed directly to a reinforced concrete track base. It used in some tunnels to strengthen and give stability to the structure.

During the closure, engineers will remove and replace the life-expired track slab, carry out associated track renewals and reinstate railway systems within the tunnel.

Wadhurst tunnel

At Wadhurst tunnel, teams will carry out tunnel maintenance along with detailed examinations of the tunnel bore, portals and shafts. These inspections are an important part of keeping the railway safe and reliable and help identify repairs that may be required in future.

Earthworks

Near Stonegate, engineers will undertake earthworks investigations, including drainage surveys, track monitoring and condition assessments. The work will help improve understanding of the cutting and drainage systems, supporting the long-term resilience of the railway.

Etchingham station and power supply upgrades

At Etchingham, a new uninterruptible power supply will be installed to improve the resilience of railway systems serving the route. Engineers will also repair the station canopy, improving the station environment for customers. While the line is closed, bridge and drainage inspections in the surrounding area will also be completed.

Maintenance

Around Robertsbridge and Mountfield, maintenance teams will replace life-expired track components, examine Mountfield Tunnel and carry out surveys to support future railway upgrades.

Further work across the route includes vegetation management, drainage inspections, routine track maintenance and structural examinations, helping to make the most of the closure and reduce the need for future disruption.

Rail replacement bus services

No trains will run between Tonbridge and Wadhurst between Saturday 24 October and Sunday 1 November.

Accessible rail replacement buses will operate between Tonbridge and Wadhurst, calling at all stations, throughout the closure. On Sunday 1 November only, when the engineering work extends further south, replacement buses will operate between Tonbridge and Battle.

Journey times will be longer than usual and passengers are advised to check before they travel and allow extra time for their journeys. Customers requiring assisted travel should continue to book assistance in the usual way.

Ticket acceptance on other routes

• Tickets will be accepted from Hastings/Ore to Ashford International.
• Tickets will be accepted on our highspeed services between Ashford International and London St Pancras.
• Customers from Stonegate, Wadhurst and Frant can also use the Southern route from Uckfield. Please note that it is a low frequency service throughout the day during the half term and you should check journey planners before you travel.

How are car parks affected?

Some station car parks will be affected during the works to support engineering activity and rail replacement bus operations.

At Tunbridge Wells, part of the station car park will be used for construction activity associated with the Grove Hill Tunnel renewal. This will reduce the number of parking spaces available throughout the programme.

At High Brooms, areas of the station car park will be required for crane operations, construction materials and site logistics while work is carried out at the station. Access arrangements will be clearly signed.

At Etchingham, Robertsbridge, Stonegate and Wadhurst, passengers should be aware that station car parks will be required for rail replacement bus operations, including bus turning and layover facilities. Parking capacity may therefore be reduced and some areas will need to be kept clear throughout the closure.

Passengers travelling from affected stations are advised to:

• Allow additional time to park and complete their journey.
• Follow temporary signage and the instructions of station staff.
• Consider alternative transport arrangements where practical.
• Check journey planners before travelling for the latest train and replacement bus information.

Check before you travel

Get in touch

If you have any questions, please visit our contact us page or telephone our 24-Hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41.