Urgent tunnel repairs between Blackfriars and London St Pancras have blocked both Thameslink lines until at least 3pm today, causing major disruption for passengers across the capital. The railway company announced the closure on X, citing the need for inspections and repairs, with services delayed or cancelled throughout the morning.
What is happening on Thameslink today?
Thameslink, which connects the north and south of London, said engineers will likely be carrying out repairs for the next few hours. In a statement, the operator explained that its Sunday service normally starts from 09:00 through the core, referring to the St Pancras and Blackfriars section. However, due to the inspections and repairs required, both lines are expected to be blocked until at least 3pm.
National Rail, which represents train services, said the tunnel at Farringdon has been closed for 'safety reasons'.
Which services are affected?
With the core of the line closed, many trains are being diverted, delayed or cancelled. Trains that usually run through London Bridge will be diverted between Blackfriars and East Croydon, making journeys longer. Services that normally run between Cambridge and Brighton will terminate and restart at King's Cross, while the route between Bedford and St Pancras will be reduced to just two trains an hour.
Thameslink trains to and from Rainham, Kent will only run between Plumstead and Rainham. The operator said tickets will be accepted at no extra cost on Southeastern services between London and Plumstead.
Which stations have no Thameslink trains?
Some stations will have no Thameslink trains at all, including West Sutton, Sutton Common, St Helier, Morden South, South Merton, Wimbledon Chase, Wimbledon, Haydons Road, Tooting and Loughborough Junction. Thameslink warned in an update that commuters might have to switch to different train operators.
Paper rail tickets, as well as London Underground trips between the closed stations, and Elizabeth line trains between Farringdon and Abbey Wood, will be accepted. Some bus trips will also be covered by Thameslink ride tickets.
