As a frequent user of the Southern train service on the Brighton / Eastbourne to Rye / Ashford line, I’d like to share my experiences in trying to leave and set foot in the lovely town of Rye. At a time when public transport has never been more important perhaps it's the moment for more of us to speak out?
With rising petrol costs and limited parking in Rye, visitors might well decide that taking the coastal train, with the changing landscapes of sea and marshes, instead of the car, is an enjoyable and environmentally sound option - but you may just want to think again.
In what now seems like the good old days, the Brighton to Rye / Ashford service ran straight through, taking about an hour. That is until one day the powers that be decided they would drop what was a useful service and they’d make everyone change at Hampden Park to pick up a connection and you might well ask “Where is Hampden Park?". On Eastbourne's edge is the answer!
Seasoned travellers to and from Rye will know that when you alight at Hampden Park you just have time to sprint up the stairs and over the bridge to pick up other connections. But those with enormous suitcases or buggies often don’t manage to struggle up the steps and over the bridge in time. And the disabled are told they need to walk right around the station and Ryers visiting Eastbourne hospital have a lengthy walk (but easier than navigating the town centre). But all are subject to the apparent curse of Hampden Park.
Dreaded announcements
Recently, relieved that the train to Hampden Park was actually on time to pick up the Rye / Ashford connection, the announcement that we all dread came over the loud speaker: “The Rye / Ashford train is cancelled due to operational investigations." That’s a new one on me too! I have heard many others – Covid, lack of drivers (driving lorries instead?), strong winds, something on the line, bus replacements etc etc.
Frustrated passengers resigned themselves to a one hour wait in a bleak station with no toilets, no café and a very small waiting room on one side only. Mobiles came out with frantic calls to rearrange appointments and find alternative routes of travel.
On that day most of us chose to catch the next Hastings train, which was due in 25 min, and huddled together in the very cold open shelter. At least Hastings has some facilities - though Covid did close the waiting room there - and Hastings can have its fair share of dreadful announcements.
But, back at Hampden Park, the London train chugged off into Eastbourne and then headed back to Hampden Park 20 minutes later so some who had stayed on it ended up where we started – but it was at least warm staying on the train!
Time to act?
A two and a half hour journey now from Brighton with the connection - and a terrible service frequently! Surely this service must impact on the local economy in a tourist town as I can’t imagine many day trippers wanting to endure this too often. There are many causes to fight at the moment and perhaps we are all weary, but rather than just downloading yet another compensation claim form that won’t be sent off, should locals, visitors and businesses be looking at fighting for something better?
