Clapham Junction and Sutton train disruption after fault

Train services between Sutton and Clapham Junction have been heavily affected after a signalling fault was reported in the Streatham area at 8.39am on Monday, March 16.

The fault is expected to cause disruption until the end of the day, with cancellations, delays and diversions across the network.

Southern services are unable to run as scheduled in both directions, and trains between Horsham, Dorking, and London Victoria are being diverted via West Croydon and Selhurst.

This means passengers who require stations between Carshalton and Balham will need to change at Sutton.

A spokesperson said: "A fault with the signalling system in the Streatham area means some lines are disrupted.

"Trains running between Sutton and Clapham Junction may be cancelled, revised or diverted."

Passengers are being advised to allow at least 15 minutes of extra travel time and to use journey planners or station staff for the latest updates.

Tickets are being accepted at no extra cost on alternative Southern services between Horsham, Dorking and any London station, as well as on Thameslink services between any London station.

The fault involves track circuits, which detect the presence of trains on the line.

When these circuits fail, the system may incorrectly indicate that a train is still present, preventing others from moving forward.

This means drivers must stop at red signals and wait for verbal permission to proceed at reduced speed, causing further delays.

Network Rail is currently investigating the cause of the fault, which could be due to an electronic issue or an obstruction on the track.

Passengers are being reminded to check their journeys using National Rail Enquiries or real-time planners before travelling.

Those who experience a delay may be entitled to compensation and are advised to keep their train ticket and a record of their journey.