Engineered by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway's Chief Engineer Frederick Banister, the first section of the line was opened in 1847 to aid the transport of goods to and from Newhaven. The line was extended in 1864 to serve the holiday town of Seaford. There used to be extensive sidings at Newhaven Docks and even a railway swing bridge over the River Ouse to connect to the other side.
Designed by Frederick Banister, Chief Engineer of the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway, the initial section of the line was opened in 1847 to facilitate movement of goods between Newhaven and other locations. The line was extended in 1864 to serve the popular seaside town of Seaford. There were extensive storage facilities at Newhaven Docks and even a railway bridge over the River Ouse.