Passengers are being told not to travel after a fallen tree caused major disruption on the rail network.
Overhead electric wires were damaged in the incident at Wivenhoe, blocking all lines between Colchester and Clacton, and Colchester and Walton.
Greater Anglia has said no trains are running on these routes, including services to Colchester Town, and has advised passengers not to travel until after 3pm on July 30.
A limited rail replacement bus service is in operation but journey times are expected to be significantly longer at around one hour and 15 minutes.
Lines were initially said to be reopening at 10am but it has now been pushed back to 3pm.
A Greater Anglia spokesman said: "Do not travel between Colchester and Clacton/Walton via Thorpe le Soken.
"Trains are unable to run between Colchester and Colchester Town, Clacton and Walton because of damage the overhead electric wires, caused by a fallen tree.
Read more
"Network Rail teams have been making repairs throughout the night, but unfortunately the damage caused to the overhead wires is more extensive than originally thought.
"Lines are not expected to re-open before 3pm."
Once the lines reopen, further delays and disruption are expected as trains may be out of position and unable to start from their usual depots.
Passengers with advance tickets for cancelled services will be able to travel on earlier or later trains.
Those who cannot postpone their journey are advised to speak to station staff about alternative travel options.
Customers delayed by 15 minutes or more are encouraged to claim compensation through Greater Anglia’s Delay Repay scheme.
Greater Anglia and Network Rail have apologised for the inconvenience and thanked customers for their patience and understanding.
They also reminded travellers to check the latest travel updates before setting out.
The disruption affects key routes: London Liverpool Street to Clacton on Sea, London Liverpool Street to Colchester Town, and Colchester to Walton.
Live service updates are available on the Greater Anglia website, along with detailed information about specific train alterations.
Passengers can also use the company’s live map to check the status of their next train.
A further update on repairs and service restoration is expected within the next three hours.
Passengers are reminded that once services resume, further delays and last-minute changes are likely.
Share