Network Rail: Line to close for16 days for allow tunnel repairs

Rail travellers in East Sussex are being advised to plan their journeys to avoid delays and disruption as a result of a line closure.

The line between Hastings and Rye will be shut from 19 October-3 November to allow maintenance work on the Ore Tunnel.

Buses will replace trains between Hastings, Rye and Ashford International station in Kent, with a shuttle train service between Rye and Ashford between 07:30BST and 18:30 from 21 October-3 November.

Lucy McAuliffe, regional director at Network Rail, said: "We have planned the work to take place, in part, over the October half-term holidays to reduce disruption to school travel and because trains are typically quieter during school holidays."

The work on the tunnel involves laying 2,100ft (640m) of new track.

The line is scheduled to reopen on 4 November.

Ms McAuliffe said: "We know there is never a good time to close the railway and we are sorry for the disruption to people's journeys.

"Working in cramped tunnels is challenging and unfortunately, due to the nature of the conditions, work takes longer."

Jenny Saunders, customer services director for Govia Thameslink Railway, which operates Southern trains, said: "We've arranged replacement buses so customers can complete their journeys."

She advised passengers to check schedules and stopping points in advance and allow plenty of extra time for journeys.

Network Rail said the work is vital to improve the tunnel's drainage.