The railway line connecting Dorking and Horsham will remain closed for an extended period, Network Rail has confirmed, following a substantial landslip near Ockley. The disruption, initially expected to be resolved sooner, has been prolonged as engineers tackle the complex task of stabilising the affected embankment and ensuring the safety of the line.
The landslip, which occurred during a period of heavy rainfall, has necessitated significant engineering work. Network Rail engineers are currently focused on removing a substantial amount of slipped earth, installing new drainage systems to prevent future incidents, and reinforcing the embankment to secure its long-term stability. The scale of the damage and the challenging ground conditions have contributed to the revised timeline for reopening.
This extended closure will continue to affect commuters, leisure travellers, and businesses reliant on the rail link between Surrey and West Sussex. Southern Rail services on this route have been suspended, with replacement bus services operating to mitigate the impact on passengers. Travellers are advised to check their journey details before setting off and to allow extra time for travel.
A spokesperson for Network Rail emphasised the organisation's commitment to safety and the need to carry out thorough repairs. They highlighted that while the closure is inconvenient, it is essential to prevent any further risks and to ensure the line can operate reliably once reopened. The repairs involve not only clearing debris but also implementing preventative measures to enhance the resilience of the infrastructure against future weather events.
Local Member of Parliament for Dorking and Horsham constituencies have expressed concerns about the ongoing disruption for their constituents. They have urged Network Rail to complete the repairs as quickly and safely as possible, acknowledging the challenges involved but stressing the importance of restoring normal service for the local community and economy.