The switch-on of a new signalling system in South London, which was due to close large parts of the National Rail and London Overground networks from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February, is being re-planned to later in 2024.
The Victoria Resignalling programme is close to the end of Phase 4, which will see the replacement of all the signalling equipment in the Tulse Hill, Peckham Rye and Crystal Palace areas alongside signalling control for the area being moved to the state-of-the-art Three Bridges Rail Operating Centre (TBROC).
A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “We’ve seen a 55% reduction in signalling delays following the switch-on of the renewed signalling between Balham and Victoria, and we’re expecting similar benefits from this.
“However, following internal reviews which form a critical part of the robust assurance process for any large-scale project of this kind, we’ve decided to re-plan the commissioning phase of this project and will announce a new date as soon as we can.
“We will still close these sections of track on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 February as this will allow us to carry out critical work ahead of the commissioning to minimise disruption for passengers later.
“While we’re disappointed we can’t give passengers these benefits by February, we’re working closely with operators to bring the new system into use as soon as possible.”
Phase 4 is expected to see 65 new modern LED signals and two new signal gantries installed as it looks to improve reliability and less delays in the area.
There is no news yet on whether the delay to the switch on of Phase 4 will delay the expected delivery of Phase 5 of the £400 million project. The next phase will see Alstom, who were awarded the contract in 2022, deliver signalling, infrastructure and control technology. It currently has a scheduled delivery date of December 2024.
Photo Credit: Network Rail/Alstom
