The Blackheath rail tunnel closure will begin on 18 May 2025 and last until 27 July, significantly altering train travel in south-east London. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Blackheath rail tunnel closure will begin on 18 May 2025 and last until 27 July, significantly altering train travel in south-east London
Image credit: Network Rail

Network Rail will invest £10 million in critical repairs to the 175-year-old tunnel. Engineers will install a waterproof lining and replace thousands of damaged bricks to stop leaks.

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These improvements aim to reduce delays, speed restrictions, and infrastructure failures that have plagued the route. Over the past year alone, faults in the tunnel caused around 1,000 minutes of delays.

Impact of Blackheath rail tunnel closure on travel

During the Blackheath rail tunnel closure, trains will divert via Greenwich with added stops at Deptford, Maze Hill, Greenwich, and Westcombe Park. DLR transfers from Greenwich to Lewisham will be available, adding seven minutes to journeys.

Southeastern will increase services on the Woolwich and Bexleyheath lines. Rail tickets can also be used on selected TfL buses, including the 54, 380, and SL3, at no extra cost.

Taxi transport will be available for passengers with accessibility needs traveling between Blackheath and Charlton.

Essential work during the Blackheath rail tunnel closure

Crews will repair track sections damaged by water, known as ‘wet beds’, and rebuild outdated drainage systems. These upgrades are vital for long-term safety and smoother travel experiences.

David Davidson, Network Rail’s Kent Route Director, explained that a continuous 10-week closure ensures efficient progress. Narrow tunnel conditions make weekend-only work ineffective.

Scott Brightwell of Southeastern thanked passengers for their patience and emphasized ongoing collaboration with Network Rail to improve service quality.

The Blackheath rail tunnel closure is expected to be the final major disruption until the project’s conclusion in 2027. Passengers are advised to check schedules in advance.

By completing these essential works, Network Rail aims to deliver a safer, more reliable railway for thousands of daily commuters.

Source: railuk.com

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