26.08.20
Major upgrades to Great Eastern Main Line this autumn
Numerous upgrade works are set to take place this autumn on the main line between Stratford and Shenfield to advance the reliability of passenger journeys and prepare for the introduction of Elizabeth line services.
At Stratford and Maryland, improvements will take place to upgrade the overhead line electrification with a new auto tension system that adjusts to temperature changes, meaning fewer delays and cancellations for passengers in the summer months.
Engineers will also be upgrading the power systems along the line to Shenfield as part of the preparation for the start of Elizabeth line services.
The vast majority of work for Crossrail has been completed between Liverpool Street and Shefield, but these works are being done to provide sufficient power supply for the new service to operate.
This power supply work and the overhead line work at Stratford is being orchestrated to lessen disruption to passengers.
Work will take place every Sunday from 18 Oct until 22 Nov. Services into London from TfL Rail and Greater Anglia will be affected. Passengers are advised by Network Rail to check before they travel.
Ellie Burrows, Network Rail’s Route Director for Anglia said: “The recent hot weather has shown that having a modern overhead power system that automatically adjusts to ambient air temperature is vital to running an efficient railway.
“Having completed the upgrade of the overhead wires between Forest Gate and Chelmsford and on the Southend Victoria line, updating the wires in Stratford is our last big push to get this upgrade work completed.
“Not running trains on some Sundays will be inconvenient for which I apologise, but it is vital time for our engineers to make preparations for our bigger package of works at Christmas.”
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia’s Managing Director, said: “This essential work will help to improve the punctuality and reliability of our services.
“Similar work has already been carried out on the Southend Victoria line and we are already seeing the benefits.
“A rail replacement bus service will be in operation while the work takes place. Customers should check before they travel and allow more time for their journeys.
“We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank customers for their patience.”
Image: Network Rail