Train travellers faced major delays today after a fire broke out next to the railway tracks between Sittingbourne and Faversham. Emergency services rushed to the scene, causing severe disruption to Southeastern rail services across East Kent.
Delays, Cancellations and Replacement Buses
A National Rail spokesperson confirmed: “We’re really sorry to customers who have experienced disruption travelling in East Kent today. A small fire next to the track between Sittingbourne and Faversham stations has disrupted @Se_railway services, with the fire brigade attending to tackle the blaze.”
Services have been hit hard, with trains cancelled, delayed by up to an hour, or diverted. The disruption is expected to continue until 6pm. Replacement buses are now running between Gillingham and Faversham, and from Faversham to Dover and Ramsgate to keep passengers moving.
Compensation and Ticket Info for Stranded Passengers
Passengers are advised that local bus operators are accepting train tickets as a valid fare. Customers delayed may be entitled to compensation and are urged to keep their train tickets and note their journeys to support any claims.
This fiery incident has thrown East Kent’s train services into turmoil, leaving commuters stranded and snarling travel plans through the afternoon rush.
