Network Rail has completed urgent embankment repairs on the Brighton Main Line after a landslip threatened major rail disruption between Three Bridges and Gatwick Airport.
The landslip, discovered in late January 2025, posed a serious risk to one of the busiest rail corridors in the South of England. Swift action by engineers saw the construction of a 30-metre sheet pile wall, which allowed train services to continue running while stabilisation works took place.
To secure the site long-term, the embankment was reshaped and reinforced with thousands of tonnes of stone. Due to its sensitive location near an allotment and the Gatwick stream, the project required daily environmental checks — with special attention paid to protected wildlife species including dormice and newts.
As part of their community engagement, Network Rail staff installed dormice and bird boxes, restored vegetable beds in the local allotment, and donated leftover hay to a nearby donkey sanctuary.
Lucy McAuliffe, Sussex Route Director for Network Rail, praised the team’s effort:
“A landslip near Three Bridges had the potential to cause major disruption to passengers and freight. Thanks to the tireless work of our colleagues, trains remained operational throughout the process.”
“We’re also grateful to local residents and passengers for their patience during the works.”
The Brighton Main Line remains fully operational following completion of the repairs.
