Commuters in South London are set to encounter significant disruptions to train services over a nine-day period during the half-term break in February. The planned engineering works will affect 34 stations and will result in the suspension of train services on parts of the National Rail and London Overground Networks.

The disruptions will primarily impact stations on Thameslink, Southern, and London Overground services between Crystal Palace, Tulse Hill, and Peckham Rye. These planned works are part of a major signalling upgrade scheduled for February 2024, as part of a £400 million investment program aimed at track and signalling upgrades across South London.

Network Rail aims to replace outdated signalling equipment from the 1980s with modern technology to enhance passenger journeys in the South London area. The recent signalling upgrades between East Croydon and London Victoria, completed last Christmas, led to a notable reduction in delays, reinforcing the importance of modernization efforts.

Despite the inconvenience posed by the temporary closures, Network Rail emphasizes that this period during half-term is significantly quieter for commuters. Conducting the work on consecutive days aims to minimize the overall impact on passengers. The public is encouraged to plan ahead, monitor updates, and follow travel advice provided by the authorities.

The disruptions will affect numerous stations across South London. For seven days from Saturday, February 10, to Friday, February 16, Southern services will be suspended at 16 stations, Thameslink services will be disrupted at the same 16 stations, and London Overground services will be halted at five stations from Saturday, February 10, until Sunday, February 18.

Alternative travel options will be available for affected passengers during the disruptions, including London Buses, National Rail, London Trams, and London Underground routes. A limited replacement bus service will also be provided where necessary.

Despite the inconvenience, Network Rail and transport operators hope that these improvements will lead to fewer delays, enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers in the South London area.