Train services have resumed following nine days of essential engineering work carried out by Network Rail between Petersfield and Havant. The planned closure enabled engineers to deliver a coordinated package of maintenance and infrastructure upgrades designed to boost long‑term safety, reliability, and performance on the busy Portsmouth Direct Line.
During the blockade, teams completed a comprehensive mix of improvements, including:
- New drainage installation to reduce the risk of flooding
- Track renewals to ensure a smoother, more reliable ride
- Upgrades to signalling, power and telecoms systems
- Follow‑up works linked to the recent Farncombe–Petersfield signalling upgrade
By combining multiple projects into a single closure, Network Rail significantly reduced the need for repeated disruption, ensuring that passengers face fewer interruptions in the months ahead.
Preparing for £120 Million Upgrades in the Havant Area
The work also allowed early preparation for the next phase in a major, long‑term investment programme. Network Rail is now moving forward with a £120 million modernisation plan in the Havant area, aimed at replacing life‑expired signalling technology and improving the performance of the route.
The ageing signalling equipment—now increasingly prone to faults—will be replaced with modern digital systems. Control will transfer to the Basingstoke Rail Operating Centre as part of a phased upgrade programme running through to 2028.
Upcoming Easter Disruption
Engineers will return ahead of the Easter weekend, with buses replacing trains between Havant, Fareham and Portsmouth Harbour from Saturday 28 March to Thursday 2 April (inclusive). Planned works during this period include:
- Structural repairs to Portcreek Viaduct, the key link connecting the mainland to Portsmouth
- Renewal of wheel timbers around Portsmouth & Southsea station
Network Rail Statement
Speaking on behalf of Network Rail and South Western Railway, Tom McNamee, Infrastructure Director, said:
He continued:
“Following the completion of the Farncombe to Petersfield upgrade, we are now moving into the next planned stage of improvements on the Portsmouth Direct Line. This is part of a long-term programme to renew ageing infrastructure and improve reliability for passengers travelling between Portsmouth and London.”
“Some elements of this work can only be completed when trains are not running. We plan these closures carefully across the year so engineers can carry out major upgrades safely and reduce the likelihood of unplanned disruption in the future.”
“Some work can only be done when trains are not running, so we plan access carefully across the year to minimise repeated disruption for passengers.”
Further Planned Closures in 2026
Additional planned closures will take place around the late May Bank Holiday, with further access scheduled towards late October. More details will be released closer to the time.
Image credit: Network Rail
