Southeastern and Network Rail have announced a significant investment of £306 million aimed at upgrading the railway infrastructure in Kent, East Sussex, and portions of south London.
This funding is intended to facilitate the renewal and enhancement of railway infrastructure in 2025. The companies indicated that these improvements would contribute to maintaining punctual train services, reducing delays, and enriching the overall experience for passengers on Southeastern routes.
As part of this initiative, Southeastern will introduce 13 new train units to replace older models servicing the lines between London-Maidstone East and London-Tunbridge Wells. Furthermore, a £27 million refurbishment of High Speed trains is scheduled, which will include the installation of phone chargers and new seating, expected to be completed in 2025.
In addition to track enhancements, the investment will also focus on modernizing and cleaning railway stations, as well as increasing accessibility for all travelers. Herne Bay station is set to receive two new lifts, anticipated to be operational in spring 2025, and automatic doors will be installed in waiting rooms at Hastings and St Leonards stations as part of Southeastern’s dedication to improving station accessibility.
Southeastern has also expressed a long-term goal of positively impacting biodiversity throughout its network. The company plans to enhance biodiversity at its stations, with a target of achieving a net gain across the network by 2035. This initiative will begin at ten locations near vital wildlife habitats, including Headcorn, Tonbridge, Ramsgate, and Gillingham.
It’s worth noting that in October 2021, Southeastern was placed under government control after the prior franchise operator, Govia, failed to report over £25 million in taxpayer funding.
