Network Rail has announced that the train line between Charing Cross and Waterloo East stations will be closed for three weeks this summer in order for essential maintenance works to take place.
When will this section of the line be closed?
The section between London Charing Cross and Waterloo East Station will be closed for 22 days from Sunday 26 July to Sunday 16 August 2026.
The lengthy closure period has been chosen as the best way to avoid months of rolling disruption and complete the works as quickly as possible. It also takes advantage of the summer period when commuting levels are lower.
What is the engineering work that is being carried out?
During the period of closure Network Rail and Southeastern Railway will be undertaking major works to replace life-expired track.
Drainage improvements will also be delivered at Waterloo East station, and structural repairs will be carried out to the Hungerford Bridge crossing the Thames and to the bridge that links Waterloo East and London Waterloo stations.
This £20 million programme of essential engineering work will improve the reliability and safety of services between London Charing Cross and Waterloo East stations.
How will Southeastern train users reach the South Bank?
Services that normally run into Charing Cross and Waterloo East will be diverted to London Victoria, London Cannon Street and London Blackfriars, with some services terminating at London Bridge.
Ticket acceptance will be in place on alternative rail routes, as well as on London Underground and London Buses, to help people complete their journeys.
As of 3 March 2026, the exact timetables for alternative routes and journey options are yet to be announced. We will update this page as information on the timetables is published by Southeastern and Network Rail.
Will there be any sessions for businesses to speak with the rail project team?
Southeastern Railway and contractors will be hosting online and face-to-face drop-in sessions, giving businesses the opportunity to speak directly with the rail project team. We will update this page with details on these sessions as they are announced.
Please see the Network Rail website for the latest updates regarding these planned Engineering Works.
