Passengers using South Western Railway (SWR) services should prepare for major disruptions in February, as essential engineering works are set to impact key routes across South West London and Surrey. On Sunday, 2 February, and Sunday, 9 February, crucial track upgrades will require the closure of several lines, meaning that many services will be replaced by bus routes.
The planned works, led by Network Rail, will involve the renewal of tracks, power rails, and critical railway infrastructure between Wimbledon and Earlsfield. While these improvements are designed to enhance long-term rail reliability, they will cause temporary service suspensions, forcing passengers to find alternative travel options.
Commuters are advised to plan ahead, as services on popular routes—including those connecting London Waterloo to Kingston, Chessington South, and Dorking—will not run as usual. Rail replacement buses will operate on affected routes, and some stations will remain closed for the entire day.
With significant disruptions expected, it is crucial for passengers to check schedules in advance, allow extra time for travel, and explore alternative routes. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes.
Engineering Works to Affect Key Routes
Commuters using South Western Railway (SWR) services should expect major disruptions on Sunday, 2 February, and Sunday, 9 February, as extensive engineering works are carried out in the Wimbledon area. These works, led by Network Rail, will involve the renewal of:
- 800 metres of track, ballast, and sleepers between Wimbledon and Earlsfield
- Rail points, which allow trains to switch tracks
- 100 metres of conductor rail, which supplies power to electric trains
The project is designed to reduce faults, improve service reliability, and provide smoother journeys for passengers. However, during this period, key train routes will be suspended, and replacement buses will operate in affected areas.
Peter Williams, SWR’s customer and commercial director, advised passengers to plan ahead, stating:
“We’re once again advising customers to plan ahead, this time if they’re intending to travel on our services on Sunday 2 and Sunday 9 February.”
Williams also reassured commuters that once the track upgrades are completed, passengers will experience a more reliable railway and better journeys.
Which Routes Will Be Affected?
Sunday, 2 February
- No trains between London Waterloo and Chessington South, Dorking, and Kingston.
- Rail replacement buses operating between:
- Clapham Junction and Twickenham via Kingston.
- Clapham Junction and Chessington South via Wimbledon.
- Berrylands station will be closed for the day.
Sunday, 9 February
- No direct trains between London Waterloo and key destinations.
- Rail replacement buses running between:
- Clapham Junction and Chessington South via Wimbledon.
- Clapham Junction and Surbiton (non-stop).
- Clapham Junction and Surbiton via Kingston.
- Berrylands station will be closed for the day.
- Hourly services between London Waterloo, Alton, and Basingstoke will start and end at Woking.
Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex Route director, acknowledged the inconvenience but highlighted the importance of the project, stating:
“We would like to thank passengers for their patience while we carry out these vital improvement works.”
Why Are These Works Taking Place?
The engineering work is part of a long-term investment plan to enhance the reliability of the railway network. By replacing aged track components, Network Rail aims to reduce faults and prevent delays caused by track deterioration.
According to SWR, these upgrades will ultimately lead to smoother, more dependable train services for passengers in South West London and Surrey.
Williams assured customers that their patience will pay off, explaining:
“When this vital maintenance is completed, our customers can expect better journeys and a more reliable railway.”
How to Plan Your Journey
To minimise travel disruptions, passengers should:
- Check service updates on the South Western Railway website before travelling.
- Allow extra time for journeys that require replacement buses.
- Consider alternative routes if heading to affected destinations.
- Rearrange travel plans if possible to avoid peak disruption periods.
With significant service changes expected, passengers should stay informed and adjust their journeys to avoid delays.
