AÂ fault with the signalling system between Three Bridges and Haywards Heath means trains have to run at reduced speed on the line towards Brighton and the coast. Train services running through these stations will be delayed by up to 25 minutes or revised. Disruption is expected until 20:30.
Customer Advice
Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express services are being delayed when travelling from Three Bridges towards Haywards Heath, then towards the South Coast. This is due to a signalling problem near Balcombe.Â
You can see whether this is on your route by checking the live map here.Â
Your journey could take around 15-25 minutes longer than usual. A few late-running trains may be revised to stop at fewer stations en route, or may only complete parts of their normal journeys.
You can still use your normal route for your journey, but you may need to change trains or wait for a different service.Â
The live departure boards are being kept up to date, and can be found here.  Please be aware that the full delay to each train may only be shown once each one travels through the affected area.
Can you tell me more about the incident?Â
Network Rail are attending to a fault with the track circuits in the Balcombe Tunnel area. Track circuits are electrical devices within the signalling system which detect and monitor trains. When they fail, trains cannot be allowed automatically into the affected area, and instead, drivers have to gain verbal permission to proceed, taking extra time. On a busy route like the Brighton Mainline, this also leads to some congestion.
Check before you travel:
You can check your journey using the National Rail Enquiries real-time Journey Planner
Compensation:
You may be entitled to compensation if you experience a delay in completing your journey today. Please keep your train ticket and make a note of your journey, as both will be required to support any claim.