Problems with the Thameslink 377s

377501
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

Its come to light that there is problems with the delivery of the 337/5's. Basically the economical downturn has affected Bombardier suppliers meaning that they can't supply all 23 units by March. Bombardier has announced today that it "aimed to supply" 15 units ready for the March 2009 deadline for the Moorgate TL branch and Blackfriars bay platform closures. First Capital Connect is in talks with the DfT to work out how to keep to the Thameslink Programme (TLP) timetable without this extra stock. This could impact the entire TLP futher delaying the start of major works. The original deadline for KO0 (Key Output Zero) was this month but had to be put back already. Hopefully FCC and DfT can work out some contingency plans to allow the TLP to start on time and finally deliver some much need relief for the long suffering passangers.

DLR Woolwich Arsenal Update

DSCF5394
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

Its been confirmed that the Woolwich Arsenal extension of the DLR is to open on the 10th January. It also seems this will be followed up on the 12th by the offical opening. More details when I get them.

Just to note that this is another completed DLR extension thats finished ahead of time and on budget! Success for the DLR once again!

Thameslink Programme (TLP) starts

Sorry for the delay folks, been busy working (and gathering information) in my new job hence the lack of posts.

Now back to business and the first physical signs of Thameslink Programme (TLP) have begun with the curtailing of services through the core. All southbound services will call into St Pancras International (high level) as of around 2230.

Last services through the core as follows

2154 to Bedford (semi fast)
2206 to Bedford - all stations

After this trains terimiate at London Bridge

As for northbound trains here are the last services from Blackfrairs.

2112 Blackfriars to Sevenoaks

Later services now run from Victoria every night until early morning.

2204 to Brighton via London Bridge
2216 to Sutton via Wimbledon

So basically from 2200 (10pm) until around 0430am you have to use Underground or rail replacement service. All FCC service tickets are vaild on the Underground but SouthEastern tickets aren't.

This all came around the same time as the december timetable change requiring re-timing of most services in the area (generally eariler). As work begins on the station building with the two new entrances at Blackfriars begun, the bridge works at Farringdon under way the Thameslink 2000 Programme is finally here!

London Overground New Trains

London Overground sign
Originally uploaded by bowroaduk

This image is the latest from TfL and announcing the arrival of the new trains. These are due to be introduced during early 2009 with the whole network using the new 378s by the end of summer. This will be the latest sign yet to commuters yet that TfL is pouring money into improving services. also along with the new train ads the date of the 2nd January 2009 for the new Overground platforms to come into use at Stratford. These are to the north of the current station along the lines to Tottenham Hale. The current platforms will be boarded off for work to convert them into DLR platforms for re-opening in July 2010 as the new Stratford International extension.

Thameslink Programme

London Blackfriars (Thameslink)
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

The first visible part of the Thameslink programme has begun with the start of demolishing of 179 Queen Street (it was an LU office building). This will allow for the new glass fronted station to be constructed. This also means that from March 2nd 2009 the Underground station closes to allow for rebuilding. When the station opens late 2011 both the platforms on the District/Circle lines will be refurished. The 3 terimating platforms currently on the east side of the station will also close on the 22nd March with currently terimating trains will continue through the Thameslink core to Kentish Town. The Thameslink station will be closed for 4 weeks next summer but the rest of the time will remain open.

For an image of the station when its finished click here

DLR Stratford International Works

New Viaduct
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

Here is the new viaduct that will take trains from Custom House direction over the Stratford International extension tracks as its really starting to take shape. The whole thing should be finished with a year for track laying and signalling to go in.

BAA adds to the funding pot

Its been announced that BAA are to give Crossrail £230m towards the total £16bn cost of the project.

Transport minister on the announcement said "Crossrail will definitely go ahead and the announcement of £230m from BAA further underpins the credibility of the project and ensures that the work will proceed from 2010 so that it could be open in 2017."

He went on to add that the city had agreed to "significant contribution to the future of Crossrail",

"Crossrail will be transformational for transport in London creating the first comprehensive east-west connections that we have had in a generation in terms of new links."

I think the last line is forgetting the Central Line tho. Overall this is good news as it means that more funding is coming to the Crossrail pot as the project moves forward. What is critical right now is actual funding as from 2010 the first construction works are expected to start with enabling works (ie moving pipes in streets) already begun this mega project is moving forward slowly. The good news is that the building of Crossrail 1 is expected to create 30,000 jobs during the construction period, something we ae in dire need of doing.

3 Car Testing between King George V to Woolwich Arsenal

3 Car Testing between King George V to Woolwich Arsenal
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

On sunday 2nd Feburary 2008 the DLR begain testing of two 3 car trains running between King George V and Woolwich Arsenal to test headway and jounery times. The test was done with 2 three car P stock (old trains) and ran for most of the day. This video is of a train departing King George V and heading into the tunnel for Woolwich Arsenal. To watch the video click on the image.

3 Car Testing between King George V to Woolwich Arsenal

3 Car Testing between King George V to Woolwich Arsenal
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

On sunday 2nd Feburary 2008 the DLR begain testing of two 3 car trains running between King George V and Woolwich Arsenal to test headway and jounery times. The test was done with 2 three car P stock (old trains) and ran for most of the day. This video is of a train arriving from Woolwich Arsenal before it goes to the crossover beyond the station and reverses. To watch the video click on the image.

DLR Victoria Extension

DLR Victoria Extension
Originally uploaded by MackenzieBlu

The TfL have released a map (in the current edition of Modern Railways Nov 08) of a possible DLR extension from Bank to Victoria possibly calling at City Thameslink, Charing Cross and Victoria. This is a change from last year DLR thinking as they had ideas of Kings Cross/Euston as the natural extension from Bank (well it does face that direction). The purple line in this picture is Crossrail.