More than 20,000 train commuters between Epping and Chatswood have been handed the date they were dreading.

September 30 has officially been earmarked as the first day peak hour trains will cease to operate between the two stations for seven months.

The shutdown will affect an estimated 14,000 people each day. Credit:Jon Reid

Buses will replace trains during the shutdown period, the final stage of construction before the Sydney Metro Northwest rail link gets under way.

More than 110 bus services will run every hour, during peak periods, in lieu of trains.