Southern Rail derailment near Lewes injures 11, shuts line for days
Two passengers seriously hurt as London-to-Eastbourne service leaves tracks between Haywards Heath and Lewes
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A Southern Rail service from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed shortly before 16:00 on 29 August, injuring eleven passengers. Two people were seriously hurt. The train came off the tracks between Landport Road and the River Ouse, about one mile north of Lewes station.
British Transport Police declared a major incident. South East Coast Ambulance Service treated patients at the scene; some were taken to local hospitals. Others were escorted to a nearby community centre for support.
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Rail services suspended until further notice
National Rail confirmed that no trains are running between Haywards Heath and Lewes. Southern Rail advised customers not to travel on the affected route. Services between Brighton, Lewes, Eastbourne and Seaford are heavily reduced. Cooksbridge and Plumpton stations are closed.
Replacement buses have been requested. Passengers heading to Gatwick Airport were told to allow an extra 150 minutes for their journey to ensure they make flight connections.
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Emergency response and investigation
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service sent ten fire engines, a command support unit and technical rescue teams to the scene. University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust responded alongside other emergency services.
British Transport Police Assistant Chief Constable Ian Drummond-Smith said all passengers had been safely evacuated. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has begun its inquiry. No cause for the derailment has been announced.
There was a banging. Everything just went topsy turvy. It seemed like a really long time but it probably was 10 seconds of that before the carriage actually fell on the side.
Yana Ludwig, passenger
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was deeply concerned. In a post on X, she thanked emergency services for their response and said the government was working with the rail industry and local partners to assist passengers.
What happens next
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch will lead the inquiry into the cause of the derailment. National Rail has not given a date for reopening the line. Passengers should check Southern Rail updates for service changes and replacement bus arrangements.
Questions this report answers
+How many people were injured in the Lewes train derailment?
Eleven people were injured. Two passengers sustained serious injuries and nine others had less serious injuries, as confirmed by South East Coast Ambulance Service on 29 August.
+Which train services are affected by the derailment?
No trains are running between Haywards Heath and Lewes. Services between Brighton, Lewes, Eastbourne and Seaford are heavily reduced. Cooksbridge and Plumpton stations are closed until further notice.
+How long will the rail disruption last?
National Rail has not given a reopening date. Disruption is expected for several days. Passengers should check Southern Rail updates for service changes and replacement bus arrangements.
+What should passengers travelling to Gatwick Airport do?
Passengers should allow an extra 150 minutes for their journey. Southern Rail advised this to ensure travellers make their flight connections amid the disruption.
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