The railway between New Cross and St Johns in southeast London will be closed over a number of weekends later this summer due to track replacement work. That closure is likely to affect Southeastern services between London Bridge and Lewisham.
Affected area highlighted on TfL rail map
Network Rail says that they will be renewing the switches and crossings (the moveable sections of track that guide trains from one track to another and allow them to cross paths). They will also renew the rails, sleepers (wooden/concrete blocks that support the rails), and the stone ballast underneath. The project will focus on replacing the switches and crossings as they are nearing the end of their lifespan, and is aimed at reducing the number of delays in the long term to improve reliability for passengers.
The line will be closed between St Johns and New Cross Station on the weekends below:
- Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th August 2022
- Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st August 2022
- Saturday 27th to Monday 29th August (Bank Holiday) 2022
- Saturday 3rd to Sunday 4th September 2022
Additionally, there will be two days of follow up work where the line will be closed:
- Sunday 11th September 2022
- Sunday 9th October 2022
During the dates listed above, passengers should check before they travel as there will be changes to services, with buses replacing trains on some routes.
Perhaps, whilst they’re adjusting the tracks, they could future-proof the area for possible Overground improvements.
With the Bakerloo Line extension in the long grass, I do wonder, if it would be an idea to extend the New Cross Branch of the Overground to somewhere like Hayes or Orpington.
Done with thought it could connect a good-sized area of South-East London to the Lizzie Line.