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Friday 9 Apr 2021

New Midland Main Line station a step closer as Network Rail improves track layout

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: East Midlands

Work is ramping up to remodel the track and make way for the new Brent Cross West station.

Over the Easter weekend, Network Rail lifted and moved some of the redesigned track between West Hampstead and Mill Hill Broadway.

The project, which will bring smoother, more reliable journeys for passengers, will also make space for the new Brent Cross West station, which is expected to open next year.

This work to improve the track layout, as well as vital changes to the signalling, will continue over the two May Bank Holidays. It will allow one of the stations new platforms to be built between Hendon and Cricklewood, to connect with the rest of the line.

For this work to take place safely, buses will replace Thameslink services between West Hampstead and Mill Hill Broadway on Saturday 1, Sunday 2, and Monday 3 May. Replacement buses are also expected to be confirmed shortly for Saturday 29, Sunday 30 and Monday 31 May. East Midlands Railway will run a reduced, amended service and journey times will be extended.

People should continue to follow the latest Government guidance and keep travel to a minimum. Passengers who need to travel are strongly advised to check their journey in advance via National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator and allow plenty of time.

The £40million Brent Cross West station is a key part of Barnet Council’s ambitious Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration programme, which will also include a new town centre, new homes and commercial, retail and leisure space.

Gary Walsh, Route Director for Network Rail’s East Midlands Route, said: “We made major progress on work to lift and move the redesigned track over Easter, which will eventually connect passengers at the new Brent Cross West station along the Midland Main Line.

“We’ve carefully planned the project to minimise disruption to services as much as possible, but these key parts of the work can only be done safely when there are no trains in the area. We want to thank people for their patience whilst these vital upgrades are carried out.”

Jenny Saunders, Customer Services Director for Thameslink, said: “Brent Cross West will be a vital addition to the Thameslink network for the area’s fast-growing population and the expanding shopping centre. If you do need to travel during either May Bank Holiday weekend, thank you for your patience while this work is under way. Please check a journey planner for the replacement bus options, and allow extra time. And please remember to wear a face covering on public transport, wash your hands and keep your distance.”

Neil Grabham, Customer Services Director for EMR said: “For any passengers who are planning on travelling over the May Bank Holiday weekends, please allow extra time for your journey, as we are running a reduced timetable on our EMR Intercity route. Full details can be found on the EMR website.

“We would like to thank passengers for their patience whilst this engineering work takes place.”

ENDS