No trains between Eastbourne and Bexhill after electrical ‘failure …
Southern train services are unable to operate between Eastbourne[1] and Bexhill[2] this morning (Saturday, May 14) after a "failure" of the electrical supply between these stations. Throughout the night, a "power surge" has damaged some cables, with these now needing "specialist equipment" to be repaired.
Although teams are working on the repairs, Southern Rail has said that disruption is expected until 1pm this afternoon. The specialist equipment is currently being fitted and tested, with the process likely to take "a number of hours".
A spokesperson for Southern Rail said: "A power surge has damaged the signalling system overnight, and this means that all lines will remain closed until repairs are completed. Unfortunately, it is expected that replacement transport will not be available, due to the number of other buses that have already been arranged to cover planned engineering works. There are also no practical alternative public transport routes."
At the moment, planned replacement buses will be operating between Bexhill, Hastings[4], Ore, Rye and Ashford International, and also on the Southeastern network between Hastings and Robertsbridge. Passengers are being advised to travel later today if possible due to current delays.
The issue has been investigated overnight and the line will be unable to open until all repairs are complete.
References
- ^ Eastbourne (www.sussexlive.co.uk)
- ^ Bexhill (www.sussexlive.co.uk)
- ^ Motorcyclist, 35, dies after fatal A29 crash with one arrest made (www.sussexlive.co.uk)
- ^ Hastings (www.sussexlive.co.uk)