Train operator Southern has warned passengers that journeys face delay and cancellations on the main line between Brighton and London until at least midday today (Monday 14 January).
Southern said: “A points failure at Gatwick Airport is causing disruption to trains at the station. Trains may be cancelled or delayed by up to 20 minutes. Disruption is expected until noon.
“Please allow extra time to complete your journey this morning as journey times will be extended.
“Customers with valid tickets are permitted to travel with the following operators at no additional cost: Metrobus between Horsham, Gatwick Airport and Redhill; Southern / Thameslink via any reasonable route to and from Gatwick Airport; London Underground between London Victoria, London Bridge and London Blackfriars; Great Western Railway between Gatwick Airport, Redhill and Reigate.
“Consider rechecking your journey prior to travelling this morning if you require, or pass through Gatwick Airport.
“How is this currently affecting the train service? Trains are unable to change from one section of track to another at Gatwick Airport.
“This is causing delays and congestion will begin building up in the area. To alleviate congestion, services will be subject to short notice alterations.
“Platform alterations are also likely to occur at Gatwick Airport.
“Following an overnight engineering possession, a set of points failed between Gatwick Airport and Three Bridges. This limits the number of lines available while engineers make their way to the affected area.
“Additionally, another set of points on approach to Gatwick Airport in the direction from Redhill has also failed, which is limiting train moves as well.
“Points are movable sections of track that allow trains to move from one part of the track to another.
“Network Rail signallers are working around this problem, but as more services begin their journeys, delays and congestion will build up.
“Engineers are on site, and attempting to find the cause for this incident.”
