Train services between Gillingham and Faversham have been severely disrupted following a landslip in the Newington area, leaving passengers facing extensive delays and cancellations.

The landslip, which occurred yesterday, prompted the closure of the line for four hours as authorities worked to assess and address the situation. Although a safety inspection allowed for a brief reopening of the line, subsequent movement of the embankment necessitated further closures. As a result, the line is expected to remain closed throughout the day, causing frustration among commuters.

Southeastern, the operator affected by the disruption, has issued statements indicating the extent of the impact on services. Trains between Rainham and Sittingbourne have been suspended, with cancellations affecting routes from London Victoria to Ramsgate/Dover via Chatham and from London St Pancras International to Ramsgate via Faversham. This disruption has left passengers scrambling for alternative transportation options.

In response to the closures, Southeastern has implemented contingency measures to mitigate the inconvenience for travellers. Special train services have been arranged between Ramsgate and Faversham, as well as between Dover and Faversham, to provide limited connectivity. Additionally, a replacement bus service operating between Faversham and Gillingham has been arranged to bridge the gap caused by the track closure.

Despite efforts to restore normalcy, Southeastern warns passengers travelling through Gillingham and Faversham to anticipate continued disruptions and delays of up to 40 minutes. The operator has indicated that urgent repairs are underway to address the damage to the track, but the extent of the repairs necessitates ongoing service interruptions.

A Southeastern spokesperson stated, “Urgent repairs to the track between Gillingham and Faversham means train services running through these stations may still be cancelled, delayed by up to 40 minutes, or revised. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.”

Passengers are advised to check for updates on service statuses and consider alternative travel arrangements until normal rail operations resume along the affected route.