Trial operations of the Elizabeth Line are moving into a new phase with large-scale exercises across the new railway, including emergency services demonstrating how they would respond to incidents on the network and in stations
Construction of Crossrail, since renamed the Elizabeth Line, began in May 2009. It was supposed to open in 2018 but is now four years late – less to do with any construction issues than mechanical & electrical issues. Since May 2021, trains have been running through the tunnels to continue building up mileage and reliability ahead of the railway opening to passengers.
Crossrail chief executive Mark Wild said: “The Elizabeth line is on track to open in the first half of 2022 as we continue to make progress on completing the works necessary to start passenger services in the central section of the railway, from Paddington to Abbey Wood.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “The Elizabeth line will transform travel across London and the southeast, benefitting millions and supporting hundreds of thousands of new homes and jobs. Its brand new trains and step-free stations will help us deliver a modern, truly world-class transport system that allows us to support the growth in London’s population over the coming decades. That’s why I’m delighted it is on track to open in the first half of 2022, in what will be a landmark moment for the capital.”
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk