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Commuters in south London are advised to plan ahead this Easter weekend as engineering works are scheduled to take place across six stations, prompting buses to replace trains on certain routes.

The works, overseen by Network Rail as part of a significant upgrade project costing £89 million, aim to enhance the reliability and safety of the railway network.

Affected Stations and Routes:

1. Hither Green:
   • Affected Stations: Lewisham, Hither Green, Lee, Mottingham, New Eltham, Sidcup
   • Work Description: Stabilization of embankment and track refurbishment.
   • Replacement Service: Buses between Lewisham and Sidcup from Friday to Monday.
2. Brixton Junction and Denmark Hill:
   • Affected Stations: Brixton, Denmark Hill
   • Work Description: Installation of new signaling system components.
   • Replacement Service: Buses to replace trains during the works.
3. South Croydon:
   • Affected Stations: Whyteleafe, Whyteleafe South
   • Work Description: Upgrading of Whyteleafe level crossing with new electrical circuits.
4. Balham Junction and Beckenham Junction:
   • Affected Stations: Balham, Streatham Hill, West Norwood, Gipsy Hill, Crystal Palace, Birkbeck, Beckenham Junction
   • Work Description: Replacement of switches and crossings and preparation for future signaling systems.

Advice for Commuters:

• Southeastern urges passengers to check travel plans and routes in advance, as buses will replace trains on some routes.
• Jenny Saunders, GTR’s Customer Services Director, advises allowing extra time for journeys due to the replacement services.
• Scott Brightwell, Southeastern’s Operations and Safety Director, reassures customers that most lines will remain open, but advises checking for any disruptions online or through journey planners.

With the aim of minimizing disruption and ensuring passenger safety, Network Rail and train operators are working collaboratively to complete these vital upgrades over the Easter weekend.

Passengers are encouraged to stay informed and plan accordingly to mitigate any inconvenience caused by the engineering works.