27.03.18
TfL successfully expands testing of CBTC signalling system to Baker Street junction
TfL yesterday announced that it had successfully expanded the testing of its new Tube signalling system which will be used on the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines.
The system, which is already in use on the Northern and Jubilee lines, was tested from Hammersmith through Euston Square and Paddington, which includes the complex Baker Street junction – the first junction to be tested with the Thales communications-based train control (CBTC) system.
It follows TfL completing major testing between Hammersmith and Edgware Road over a weekend in February.
The latest successful tests move the system a step closer to coming live between Hammersmith and Edgware road in summer, creating more reliable services and more accurate real-time information.
After that, the system will be rolled out progressively across 14 sections on the Tube network, improving reliability bit by bit to allow passengers to enjoy better services from 2021, with all four lines set to use the system by 2023.
It’s expected that the signalling system will boost capacity by a third across all four lines, amounting to 36,500 customers during peak hours, as trains will be able to run closer together.
“It’s great news that we have been able to start testing on the next section of the network,” said Mark Wild, managing director of London Underground. “It shows that our Four Lines Modernisation Project is now moving at pace and our customers will be able to see the benefits of this huge programme soon.”
The next stage of testing will involve longer eight-car S-stock trains on the Metropolitan Line being used for the first time.
Shaun Jones, vice-president for transport at Thales added: “Once again, the fantastic effort of our teams is ensuring continued progress on this significant upgrade of these critical lines.
“We are now beginning to test in more challenging areas of the network, our advanced signalling system technology and expertise, and our knowledge of the network and its complexities, are all coming together ensuring we deliver a world class railway for London.”
Top image: Transport for London