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Disruption to Kent's railways continues despite break in strike action

By: Liane Castle lcastle@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 10:13, 24 June 2022

Updated: 14:26, 24 June 2022

Despite a day off from strike action, disruption on Kent's railways continued today as more services were cancelled or delayed while workers caught up with safety checks.

This morning, electrical supply issues meant services from Ramsgate, Faversham, Dover Priory and Ashford experienced several delays.

A warning at Sittingbourne Station

The issue was then resolved but service through Faversham then encountered further problems because of level crossings and freight movement.

In a tweet, operator Southeastern explained: "UPDATE: Services which run via Faversham are now being further delayed by:

"A level crossing failure near Sittingbourne.

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"A problem with a freight train near Gravesend."

Network Rail has apologised for the delays explaining it all comes down to staff catching up with safety checks.

In a tweet, it said: "We’re really sorry for the delays to @Se_railway passengers in #EastKent.

"Due to the industrial action yesterday, staffing issues meant our routine safety checks of the power supply overnight were delayed, so trains via Ramsgate, Faversham, Dover Priory and Ashford are disrupted.

"The railway outlined in red in the picture is powered by a local electrical control room.

"Safety checks on the power supply to trains were done overnight but were delayed, so trains started late this morning.

"We have to do these checks to make sure passengers are safe and avoid the risk of trains becoming stranded if they can't draw power.

Read more!

"Again, we're really sorry for delays.

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"Please check with @Se_Railway for the latest travel advice."

Services are now running with fewer delays however alterations are expected to continue until 3pm.

People in Kent are being urged not to travel as more than 40,000 workers walk out for three days of industrial action.

The first day of strikes started on Tuesday when a usually busy Ashford International resembled a ghost town with nearly empty platforms and quiet commuter trains.

The only service running was the speed services into London from Ashford International and Ebbsfleet.

There was a break on Wednesday before strikes resumed again yesterday.

They will continue tomorrow for the last of the three planned days.

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