Network Rail has completed a programme of emergency repairs to an embankment on the Brighton Main Line near Three Bridges, restoring full safety and stability to a key stretch of one of the country's busiest rail routes.

The repairs were carried out after a landslip occurred between Three Bridges and Gatwick Airport in late January, threatening disruption to passenger and freight services. Maintenance teams acted swiftly, initially taking one track out of use while a 30-metre sheet pile wall was constructed to prevent further movement and allow trains to continue running on all lines.

Engineers have since carried out extensive work to permanently stabilise the embankment. This included reducing the slope’s steepness to lower the risk of future slippage and backfilling the embankment with thousands of tonnes of stone.

-- Advertisement --

The worksite, located next to an allotment and the Gatwick Stream, presented significant environmental challenges. Daily wildlife checks were conducted throughout the project to protect dormice, newts, and other protected species. As part of efforts to thank the local community for their patience, the project team also installed bird and dormice boxes, restored vegetable beds at a nearby allotment, and donated unused hay bales to a local donkey sanctuary.

Lucy McAuliffe, Sussex Route Director at Network Rail, said: "A landslip on the Brighton Main Line near Three Bridges had the potential to cause major disruption to passengers and freight customers.

"Colleagues worked tirelessly to stop the landslip and keep trains safely moving. Thanks to their efforts, there was minimal disruption to train services, and this critical section of railway has been fully operational throughout the last few months.

"We appreciate the patience and understanding of passengers and lineside neighbours during the repair process."