Train times at Southern will change from Sunday 12 December 2021 as Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) starts to introduce an updated winter 2021/2022 timetable.
The timetable introduction will be phased, with the last stage introduced after the holiday period on Tuesday 4 January 2022. Until 4 January there will be improvements and changes on some routes but also temporary service reductions on others.
This will support significant engineering works over the Christmas and New Year period, and ensure planned services are as reliable as possible with the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on GTR’s operation. It will also reflect changes to services during bank holidays and the Christmas and New Year week.
It’s important for passengers to check before they travel in this period.
Gatwick Express also returns on Monday 13 December, to support the recovery of Gatwick Airport and the South East economy. Services were suspended on 30 March 2020 as the pandemic took hold and passenger numbers at the airport tumbled. Passengers at the airport are now returning in greater numbers. Gatwick Express, however, will also be affected by engineering work until 4 January (see editor’s notes).
GTR Interim Chief Operating Officer Angie Doll said: “We’re changing our train times in phases from 12 December to support engineering work and ensure services are as reliable as possible given the ongoing impact of Covid-19.
“We do strongly urge our customers, including those travelling to see friends and family over the festive period, to check before leaving home using live travel updates on our websites and at National Rail Enquiries where they can also sign-up for alerts.”
She added: “We’re pleased to reinstate our seven-day-a-week non-stop Gatwick Express service. Gatwick Airport plays a vital part in driving economic growth in the South East and we’re proud to support its recovery.”
Passengers are also reminded that they must wear face coverings across the railway unless exempt.
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