Network Rail and Southern Rail have announced that the Lewes to Haywards Heath line will remain closed for at least another 10 days following a train derailment that seriously injured two passengers. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, involved a London Victoria to Eastbourne service carrying around 150 passengers, when three carriages left the tracks.
Investigation and Closure Details
The closure is necessary for teams to recover the derailed train and begin repairs to the railway, according to a joint statement from Network Rail and Southern Rail. The exact cause of the derailment is still under investigation, and passengers have described the experience as 'terrifying'.
Customers are advised to check before traveling and, where possible, use alternative train services via Brighton. Rail replacement buses will operate between Lewes and Haywards Heath, serving Cooksbridge and Plumpton, but they have limited capacity.
Injuries and Passenger Experience
The derailment happened at around 3.50pm, leaving some passengers trapped for hours before they could climb out via ladders. In total, 18 people sustained non-serious injuries, while two were taken to major trauma centers. Fortunately, their wounds were not deemed to be life-threatening.
The line closure is expected to cause significant disruption for commuters and travelers in the area, with alternative arrangements in place but limited in capacity. Further updates will be provided as the investigation and repair work progress.
