Rail lines closed for half-term upgrade work

All railway lines have been closed through Dartford for nine days so "major upgrade works" can take place.

Network Rail says the upgrade of Dartford Junction, the busiest in Kent, will improve its reliability.

From Saturday to 22 February, buses will replace train services between Gravesend and Dartford towards Crayford, Barnehurst, and Slade Green. Stone Crossing, Greenhithe, Swanscombe and Northfleet stations will have no services.

During the closure, Network Rail says a programme of station improvements will also be undertaken taking advantage of the line closure.

Services will run as normal into London along the Sidcup, Bexleyheath and Woolwich routes.

David Davidson, chief operating officer for Southeastern Railway, said: "The work at Dartford Junction, where 650 trains pass every day, is a vital investment in the long-term resilience and efficiency of one of the busiest junctions of our network."

Elsewhere in the South East, South Western Railway said trains via Guildford which usually terminate at Portsmouth Harbour will instead terminate at Petersfield on Saturday and Sunday, where passengers can change for a replacement bus service.

The operator added that all lines through Viriginia Water will closed on Sunday and replaced by buses.

Southern Rail said buses are replacing trains between Barnham and Portsmouth/Southampton on Saturday and Sunday.

On Sunday, London Victoria is closed with most services in Sussex and Surrey diverted to London Bridge.

Buses will also replace trains between Hastings and Ashford International, while the line between Dorking and Horsham is due to re-open on Monday following a landslip.

Passengers can check their journeys on the National Rail or relevant train operator website.

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