Train services on the Brighton Main Line are being disrupted by a landslip between Three Bridges and Gatwick Airport, and passengers are being advised to check before travelling.

Work to repair the damage began last night, but Network Rail warned that one running line had been obstructed by the work, although the other three remain open.

Rain is being blamed for the slip, at Tinsley Green, which was first reported a week ago and affects a 30m stretch of the line.

Network Rail has been talking to local residents and businesses about the increased noise from the site which will be heard when steel piles, 6m long, are driven into the embankment this week. Engineers will also be installing a steel beam to the back of the sheet pile wall and attaching anchors into the ground.

The second phase of work will be carried out from the bottom of the embankment, when the slope will need to be rebuilt with new material, although this part of the work is expected be less disruptive to train services. 

Network Rail’s Sussex route director Lucy McAuliffe said: ‘We know that there’s never a good time to close any tracks on the railway, but the Brighton Main Line is a crucial link between the south coast, Gatwick Airport and the capital. Repairing this landslip now will stop it getting worse.

‘It is a challenging site to work on, and we are very mindful of our neighbours. But by doing this work as safely and as efficiently as possible, we can get the railway fully reopened as soon as we can.’

Govia Thameslink Railway warned that some of its trains will be affected. Customer services director Jenny Saunders said: ‘Regrettably, these significant and essential repairs that Network Rail must make to the embankment will continue to disrupt our service.

‘Trains may be delayed and be busier than usual, especially during the morning and evening peak. Please check our websites and online journey planners such as nationalrail.co.uk for the latest travel information before setting off.’

Do you have a comment on this story? Please click here  to send an email to Platform at Railnews.

Moderated comments will be published on this site, and may also be used in the next print edition RN336, published 13 February.