Track replacement on the Thameslink route in central London will result in the closure of the line from St. Pancras International to Herne Hill from Christmas Day to Sunday, 29 December.
During this period, Network Rail engineers will install 1,670 meters of new rails on the track between Farringdon and Blackfriars, and recycle any leftover scrap rail after the new track construction is completed.
Lucy McAuliffe, Network Rail’s Sussex Route Director, said:
“The rails between St Pancras International and Blackfriars were installed in 2011, and after 13 years and thousands of trains passing over the track, the rails are worn and need replacing with brand new rail to prevent faults delaying passenger journeys.
“With the railway closed anyway on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, engineers will get a head start on the work ready for this crucial route to reopen.”
Jenny Saunders, Customer Service Director for Govia Thameslink Railway, said:
“We know how important this time of the year is to our customers, which is why, with such a lengthy period of improvement work planned over the festive period, we want to give them as much time as possible to plan ahead. It really is vital to consider your options now. Thank you for your patience.”
Photo credit: Thameslink
