Rail passengers in West Sussex and Surrey are being told the railway line between Horsham and Dorking is expected to reopen by mid-February, following disruption caused by a landslip.
Network Rail says it is confident the route can be brought back into use once repair work is completed. The line has been closed since Monday after a landslip was discovered near Ockley, forcing the suspension of all train services along the stretch.
Engineers were sent to the site after the instability was identified, with safety concerns prompting an immediate closure of the line. Network Rail says teams are continuing to assess the extent of the damage and are carrying out stabilisation and repair work to ensure the track can be safely reopened.
The closure has affected services between Horsham and Dorking, with passengers advised to allow extra time for their journeys. Rail replacement bus services are currently running between stations while the line remains shut, although travellers have been warned that journeys may take longer than usual.
Network Rail has apologised for the disruption caused and says the work is necessary to maintain the safety of the railway. Recent wet weather is believed to have contributed to ground instability in the area, increasing the risk of landslips on embankments and cuttings.
Passengers are being urged to check before they travel and to plan ahead while repairs continue. Updates on the reopening date and replacement services are being provided through train operators and Network Rail’s travel information channels.
If the repair programme remains on schedule, the line is expected to reopen by mid-February, restoring normal rail services between Horsham and Dorking.
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