18.11.11
Thameslink platform extensions complete
Thameslink platform extensions are now complete at Flitwick and Harlington stations, which will allow 50% longer 12-car trains to operate on the Bedford to Brighton route from next month. First Capital Connect will lengthen its first services from 8-12 carriages starting on December 12.
Network Rail has extended platforms at 12 stations north of London on the Thameslink route: Bedford, Flitwick, Harlington, Leagrave, Luton, Luton Airport Parkway, Harpenden, St Albans, Radlett, Elstree & Borehamwood, Mill Hill Broadway and West Hampstead Thameslink.
Jim Crawford, Network Rail’s major programme director for Thameslink, said: “The completion of the platform extensions marks a major milestone in the Thameslink construction programme and will allow longer trains to run from next month as planned.
“As well as more seats and less congestion at the busiest times of the day, passengers have more to look forward to next year with the new stations at Blackfriars and Farringdon opening. This will provide a huge improvement to facilities and access at these two important London stations.”
David Statham, First Capital Connect projects director, added: “Network Rail has done a great job extending platforms north of London in time for our new timetable on 12 December.
“This first phase of the Thameslink programme means we can now run our first longer trains. The next phase will see a new train fleet delivered in 2015 which will create many more longer services.”
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