Railway trespass incidents across Sussex have risen significantly over the past five years, according to newly released data.
Statistics reveal that the Sussex rail network, which encompasses the Brighton Main Line, documented 951 trespass occurrences during the 2025/26 period.
This represents an increase from the 715 incidents recorded in 2021/22.
The rise has contributed approximately 110,000 minutes of passenger delays.
Paul Langley, who serves as head of security, crime and resilience within Network Rail’s southern region, addressed the situation.
According to Langley, those working in the southeast region are fully cognisant of how trespassing on railway infrastructure affects daily operations.
The behaviour impacts thousands of individuals on a regular basis.
The railway should remain free from public access.
Those who venture onto the tracks endanger not only themselves but also emergency responders and personnel who must address such incidents.
Criminal activity related to trespass affects both staff operating on the railway network and ordinary members of the public attempting to travel to workplaces, return home to their families, attend medical appointments, or reach airports.
In response to the growing problem, the rail sector and British Transport Police have introduced an initiative aimed at reducing offences committed by individuals trespassing on railway property.
The programme involves strengthened cooperation between agencies, with particular emphasis on gathering improved evidence to assist with legal proceedings.
Additionally, victim impact statements will highlight the consequences of rail-related criminal activity.
Technological solutions are also being deployed.
Unmanned aerial vehicles and surveillance systems incorporating artificial intelligence are being utilised to identify and discourage trespassers from accessing railway grounds.