Network Rail is to begin essential work at Ore Tunnel in a month to improve drainage through the tunnel.

Additionally, the work will stop water seeping through the tunnel walls and prevent further damage to the railway equipment.

On the 19/20th of October, no trains will run between Hastings, Rye and Ashford International with buses running instead.

Between the 21st of October and 3rd of November, no trains will run between Hastings and Rye at all times with buses replacing trains.

A shuttle train will operate between the hours of 7:30 am and 6:30 pm to take passengers between Rye and Ashford International.

Other work during the closure will include

• Replacing 700 yards of track through the tunnel
• Refurbishing 4 sets of points
• Repairing the footbridge at Ore station and the Briscoe Road bridge in Guestling 
• Surveys and maintenance of embankments/cuttings to prevent landslips
• Maintenance of drainage culverts between Winchelsea and Hastings

“We know there is never a good time to close the railway and we are sorry for the disruption to people’s journeys. Working in cramped tunnels is challenging and unfortunately, due to the nature of the conditions, work takes longer.

“We have planned the work to take place, in part, over the October half-term holidays to reduce disruption to school travel and because trains are typically quieter during school holidays. That means fewer people are likely to be impacted overall.”