Transport for London has confirmed that a major milestone was met at Christmas as a test passenger train travelled through the new tunnels, on the Northern Line extension, from Kennington to Battersea Power Station.
On arrival at Battersea, the train used the new crossover junction to complete its return journey back to Kennington.
The first test journey marks the completion of major work on the Northern Line extension, which includes:
- Switching on electricity supply to the new stations at Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms.
- Energising the power supply to the tracks, allowing trains to run on the new section.
- Signalling software connecting the extension to the network at Kennington has been commissioned.
Heidi Alexander, Deputy Mayor for Transport, said: “I'm delighted that the Northern Line Extension has reached this major milestone, with the project on track to welcome its first passengers in the autumn. Last year was one of the hardest in TfL's history so it's great to start 2021 on a positive footing, not least because the extension will support thousands of new jobs and homes for our city.”
Stuart Harvey, TfL's Director of Major Projects, said: “Seeing a Northern line train travelling through the extension for the first time is a really significant milestone and demonstrates the commitment of our brilliant team who have been working so hard during such a challenging year. The Northern Line Extension continues to support jobs, homes and growth in this exciting riverside destination and has created employment through the supply chain across the UK. We are now focused on making sure the signalling software and systems are ready along with completing the final stages of fit-out of the two new stations before the planned opening of the extension in the autumn.”
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Maybe rename Battersea Power Station to New Battersea, East Battersea or Battersea Riverside. And in future to extend the Northern Line to Clapham Junction.