24.11.14
First section of Crossrail track laid as mammoth projects hits new phase
The first section of track to be used by Crossrail trains has been laid on a new bridge in west London.
The 120-metre long Stockley Flyover will be used by Heathrow Express and Heathrow Connect services from next year and is the largest single-span bridge to have been installed anywhere on the Great Western railway since the days of Brunel. It will ensure that services heading towards central London will be able to join the Great Western Main Line without delaying, or being delayed, by other trains using the route.
Matthew White, surface director at Crossrail said: “Installing the first section of Crossrail track is a major milestone for the project. The flyover at Stockley will provide a vital new link between Heathrow and London, significantly improving connections between the airport and the West End, the City and Canary Wharf.”
Crossrail services between London Paddington and Heathrow will begin in 2018. From 2019, the full route will open, allowing passengers to travel from Heathrow right through the centre of the capital without changing trains. Up to four Crossrail trains an hour will link Heathrow with central London and beyond.
Matthew Steele, Crossrail programme director at Network Rail said: "The Network Rail and Carillion teams are really proud to deliver the first section of new railway for Crossrail. Once Crossrail is operational, this brand new structure will enable us to increase the number of rail services between central London and Heathrow airport. After four years of planning is it great to see this new infrastructure being brought into service, well done to everyone involved."
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