Southeastern cancelled a number of its train services starting October 3, 2026, after drivers found bedbugs in their cabs on September 22, 2026. The affected trains, based at the West Marina Depot in Hastings, were removed from service for cleaning and possible treatment.
Containment and Affected Routes
The bedbug infestations were confined to drivers’ cabs on two trains, triggering the locking of passenger carriages to isolate them from the cabs. Southeastern confirmed that none of the insects were found in passenger areas. Mainline routes affected include services running via Battle, Tunbridge Wells, and Sevenoaks in Kent, East Sussex, and Greater London. High Speed 1
services remained unaffected by the infestation.
Official Response and Cleaning Measures
Oly Turner, head of drivers at Southeastern, stated the company has a good working relationship with its drivers who assisted in managing the incidents. Turner said, “When we receive reports such as these we check trains thoroughly before they are put back into service when given the all clear.” A Southeastern spokesperson added that trains and stations are cleaned thoroughly to ensure passenger safety and confidence.
Passenger Impact and Operational Details
Passengers on southeastern trains encountered cancellations requiring alternative arrangements as the trains were removed from active service. The West Marina Depot in Hastings serves as the terminus for
the affected trains returning from London. Trains remained in service only while returning to the depot for inspection and treatment if necessary. Train operations continue to focus on safety measures while resolving the bedbug issue.
