Line closure through Maidstone East for nine days in May

Major work on the Southeastern network will see a nine‑day closure of the line from 23–31 May, with all trains suspended and replacement buses running.

The line will be closed due to extensive engineering works across the Ashford–Maidstone East–Borough Green corridor. 

Accessible buses will replace trains between Ashford International, Maidstone East and Borough Green & Wrotham for nine days from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31 May.

Network Rail engineers are carrying out a number of improvements along the route to deliver better journeys, including track replacement, embankment support, and new drainage.

Planned work

- Nine‑day line closure — No trains between Ashford International, Maidstone East and Borough Green & Wrotham from 23–31 May. All services are replaced by buses.   

- Rock‑cutting stabilisation — Engineers are installing 1,300 yards of new netting and bolts near Maidstone East to prevent rockfalls.   

- Drainage upgrades — Around three miles of drainage improvements are being completed in the Maidstone East area to reduce flooding and landslip risk.   

- Platform 3 switch & crossing renewal — New switches and crossings are being installed to improve long‑term reliability.   

- Track replacement — Nearly 2,286 metres of track are being replaced between Harrietsham, Lenham and Charing.   

- Bridge & tunnel inspections — Multiple structures between Bearsted and Ashford are being examined and maintained.   

- Ryarsh Lane level crossing replacement — The crossing near West Malling is being fully renewed.