North Downs Line signalling upgrade

We’re renewing level crossings and signalling between Shalford and Gomshall for a safer, more reliable railway.

Project latest

From Sunday 14 to Saturday 27 September 2025 we will be completing the final stage of our re-signalling on the line.

At Burrows and Brook level crossing we will be installing the new barriers that cover the full width of the road as opposed to just half, as well as the infrastructure that will enable the new signalling system to come online.

Once all of the physical components are in, we will be conducting testing to make sure the new signalling system and level crossings work as intended, ready for the re-opening of the line.

Railway closure

For us the complete these works, the line between Guildford and Reigate will be closed between Sunday 14 and Saturday 27 September 2025.

During this period, buses will replace trains as follows:

• Sunday 14 September – Aldershot to Guildford – Guildford to Gatwick Airport
• Monday 15 to Saturday 27 September – Guildford to Gatwick Airport

A fast bus from Guildford to Gatwick will run, as well as a stopping service.

Crossing closure dates

Project timeline

Having started surveys in the areas in 2021, we plan to finish work on the new level crossings in 2025. 

What work is taking place?

We’ll be upgrading four level crossings on the line; Chilworth, Tangley, Brook and Burrows Lane. Our engineers will also be upgrading the signalling between Shalford and Gomshall.  

All four crossings will have new signalling installed and will feedback to Guildford Area Signalling Centre.  

Brook and Burrows Lane level crossings are being replaced by state-of-the-art level crossing technology to make them safer for both train and road users. The crossings will be fitted with radars that will scan the crossing before a train approaches, only lowering the barriers once all vehicles are clear. 

Meanwhile Chilworth and Tangley level crossings will be fitted with CCTV systems and be monitored by a signaller, who will observe the crossings, lowering the barriers when safe to do so. 

As part of these works, we will also be upgrading 16 signals along this stretch of railway. Newer equipment means faults are less likely to occur, providing more reliable services for passengers. 

Why is the work needed?

The level crossings are now out-dated and need replacing to maintain a reliable and safe railway for passengers and road users. These works will increase resilience, through the installation of intelligent modern equipment which allows remote monitoring. The new crossings have also been designed to be easier to maintain.

Burrows Lane, Tangley and Brook crossings are currently three of the riskiest crossings on the route, but these improvements will decrease the risk of an incident at these crossings by 97%.

Get in touch

If you have any questions about the work we’re doing on the North Downs Line, please contact us by visiting our contact us page or by calling our 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.