Emergency services at scene after derailment close to Lewes station
A passenger train derailed close to Lewes railway station on Thursday afternoon, prompting an immediate response from police, fire and ambulance crews and leading to suspension of services through the town.
British Transport Police said officers were on scene after receiving reports of a derailment at 3.54pm. South East Coast Ambulance Service confirmed it was called "shortly before 16:00 BST" and sent several ambulance resources, including specialist teams, to work alongside other emergency partners.
"We were called shortly before 16:00 BST and have a number of ambulance resources at the scene, including specialist teams, working alongside our emergency service partners." — South East Coast Ambulance Service
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said it had been alerted to an incident near Lewes station and confirmed crews remained at the scene, working with other emergency services. A police statement asked members of the public to avoid the area while responders operate.
Transport impact and official updates
Network Rail has confirmed that no trains are able to run between Haywards Heath and Lewes "until further notice", with passengers told to expect significant delays. Southern Rail advised travellers in the affected area to allow an extra hour for journeys; those travelling to Gatwick Airport were asked to allow up to an extra 90 minutes. Local stations including Cooksbridge and Plumpton were reported as not being served while the route remains closed.
- Incident reported to police at approximately 15:54.
- Ambulance resources dispatched shortly before 16:00 BST.
- Train services between Haywards Heath and Lewes suspended until further notice.
| Time (approx.) | Event |
|---|---|
| 15:54 | Derailment reported near Lewes station |
| ~16:00 | Ambulance services called and dispatched |
| Afterwards | Rail services between Haywards Heath and Lewes suspended |
Local political and public reaction
Lewes's Member of Parliament, James MacCleary, described the situation as a "very serious and developing incident" and said he was in touch with relevant authorities. He urged anyone concerned about friends or family to contact the emergency services.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was "deeply concerned" by reports of the derailment and thanked emergency services supporting those affected, adding that government officials were working with the rail industry and local partners to assist passengers.
Initial media and social media posts suggested the derailment was linked to a landslide, but officials have not confirmed a cause. The British Transport Police and rail industry bodies said they would provide further information as inquiries at the scene continued.
What this means for Lewes residents
The immediate priorities are the safety of anyone on board and the restoration of a safe railway corridor through the town. For commuters and residents, the closure of the line is likely to cause disruption throughout the evening, with onward travel times through the affected corridor increased.
Emergency services have asked people to avoid the area to allow responders to operate without hindrance. Network Rail and Southern Rail have advised passengers to check official channels for updates on services and timetables.
WE NEWS will continue to monitor official updates from British Transport Police, South East Coast Ambulance Service, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, Network Rail and Southern Rail, and will publish further confirmed information as it becomes available.
