Multiple signalling faults are causing widespread disruption to railway services between Portsmouth Harbour and Guildford tonight, with trains cancelled, delayed or running at reduced speeds. Passengers face delays until day’s end.
South Western Railway has reported significant problems across its network this evening, with signalling issues affecting multiple routes serving Portsmouth and the surrounding Hampshire area.
Major Disruption Across Network
The railway operator confirmed that trains between Portsmouth Harbour and Guildford are experiencing severe delays due to various technical failures. Services are operating at reduced speeds on all affected lines, with some trains cancelled entirely.
A signalling fault between Liss and Godalming is forcing trains to crawl at lower speeds across all lines in the area. Meanwhile, a points failure between Woking and Guildford has blocked several lines, causing further complications for commuters.
Additional problems have been reported between Beaulieu Road and Brockenhurst, where signalling issues are restricting speeds on Southampton-bound services. At Motspur Park, all lines towards Epsom remain blocked due to signal malfunctions.
Earlier signalling problems at Southampton Central have been resolved, with all lines now reopened, though residual delays continue to affect services.
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Alternative Transport Options
Rail passengers can use their tickets on Southern Railway services operating between London Victoria and Portsmouth Harbour during the disruption.
Several local bus routes are also accepting railway tickets, including:
- First Bus services 1, 2, 3, 7 and 8 covering Portsmouth city centre, Cosham and Hilsea
- Stagecoach South routes 18, 19, 20, 21, 23 and the 700 ‘Coastliner’ service connecting Havant, Portsmouth and surrounding areas
Passenger Advice
South Western Railway has apologised for the inconvenience and advised passengers to check journey updates before travelling. Those affected by delays may be eligible for compensation under the company’s delay repay scheme.
Station staff and help points are available for further travel advice. The operator expects disruption to continue until the end of service today.
Passengers can contact South Western Railway on 0345 6000 650 for assistance or visit their website for real-time updates on service status.
