Our engineers will be working during November to improve journeys from Guildford to Gatwick Airport.
What work is taking place?
During the 7-day closure, our teams will be working hard to upgrade railway tracks (the whole structure that trains run on including rails, sleepers and ballast) on the North Downs Line which links Reading and Guildford with Gatwick Airport and Redhill.
During the closure we will:
- Deliver a plain line heavy refurb, which involves replacing ballast (the stones beneath the track that give support)
- Complete track rerailing, which involves replacing old rails (the lengths of steel that are welded together for trains to run on)
- Wheel timber renewals over the river Wey (sections of wood that provide extra support to the rails running over the bridge)
When is the work taking place?
The work is taking place from Saturday 11 to Friday 17 November, which means the railway between Guildford and Gatwick will be closed.
How will this work affect me?
During the closure, buses will replace trains throughout between Guildford and Gatwick Airport. Please visit Great Western Railways for more information about rail replacement services.
During the closure trains will continue to operate between London, Redhill, Reigate and Gatwick Airport. You are advised to check before you travel to minimise disruption to your journey.
Whilst every effort will be made to contain the noisier activities to the daytime, the constraints of our schedules may mean that some noise at night is unavoidable. We apologise if our work causes you any disruption.
Why is the work needed?
This work will improve journeys for passengers on the North Downs line between Guildford and Gatwick Airport station. By replacing key sections of track we can avoid temporary speed restrictions and keep services on time. Our work will boost the railways reliability and performance and reduce delays caused by infrastructure failings.
Get in touch
For more information or to get in touch with us, please visit our contact us page, follow us on X (formally known as Twitter) or by calling our 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.