More train disruption as broken rail blocks New Forest line

A BROKEN rail on the New Forest train line has forced South Western Railway services to be cancelled or delayed.

The damage between New Milton and Brockenhurst has blocked the route, with disruption to passengers and commuters expected until about 8pm tonight (Wednesday).

The incident is on top of ongoing strike action by the RMT union which has reduced services across the network under a temporary timetable. The latest walk-out will last until 1st January with a two-day break for Christmas and Boxing Day when trains do not run.

SWR said: “Due to a broken rail between New Milton and Brockenhurst the Southampton-bound line is blocked.

“Train services running through these stations may be cancelled or revised. Disruption is expected until 8pm on 18th December.

“As the line towards Southampton is blocked, trains will not go past Brockenhurst as they would not be able to return.”

It means services between Southampton Central and Bournemouth will run only as far as Brockenhurst and back, missing out local stations at Sway, New Milton, Hinton Admiral and Christchurch.

Trains between London Waterloo and Bournemouth will be limited to between Waterloo and Southampton Central.

Replacement buses will run between Brockenhurst and Bournemouth.

Tickets will also be accepted at no extra cost to customers on the CrossCountry between Bournemouth and Basingstoke in both directions.

An South Western Railway spokesperson added: “For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point.

“We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey.”