Media centre

Tuesday 28 Aug 2007

MAJOR TUNNEL IMPROVEMENT WORKS COMPLETED

Region & Route:

| Southern

Network Rail has completed a £2m project to renew tracks in Grove Hill Tunnel in Tunbridge Wells. The three and a half week project was completed on time and will ensure that passengers on the Tonbridge to Hastings Line will experience smoother and more reliable journeys. Work in the tunnel included the renewal of 130 metres of concrete track beds, plus further work to replace points and improve drainage. During the period of work, Southeastern operated replacement bus services between Tonbridge/Tunbridge Wells and Wadhurst. Following completion of the project, train services have now been restored and are running normally. Tunbridge Wells station car park will remain closed until September 14th to allow Network Rail to remove site equipment and ensure that the car park is fit to return to use. Alternative parking arrangements will be in place until that date at the Torrington Road multi-storey car park next to the station. Network Rail Kent Route Director Andrew Munden said: “This project has been successful in renewing infrastructure and therefore providing improved journeys for passengers in future. We would like to thank passengers for their patience and cooperation while these vital works were carried out.” Southeastern spokesman Nigel Jarrett said: " This project has demonstrated the good working relationship that exists between Southeastern and Network Rail and we have received praise from passengers over the alternative travel arrangements provided, even though some disruption to journeys was inevitable. We endorse Network Rail's appreciation of their forbearance during the past few weeks."