Platform work to on the programme to improve track layouts at London’s Kings Cross station as part of the £1.2bn East Coast Main Line (ECML) upgrade was completed over the weekend.
Over the last month platforms 0 to 6 have been closed while platform edges were demolished, track lifted and overhead line equipment removed.
The platform work was part of major project at the station – one of four major schemes on the ECML upgrade – to simplify the track layout and reopen a tunnel just outside the station that has been disused for 40 years. The changes remove a bottleneck and will allow more trains to enter and exit the station to reduce congestion and create more journey reliability for passengers.
The final stage of the current work involved changes to the signalling, which was carried out over the weekend, but it only marks the half way stage in the work. The signalling changes will allow trains to use the rebuilt platforms and enable the project team to repeat the process on platforms 7 to 11 with that element of the work expected to be completed in early June.
Speaking ahead of today’s reopening, Network Rail principal programme sponsor for the East Coast Upgrade Ed Akers said: “It’s strange seeing no trains, no track and no passengers across half of King’s Cross as we make major progress to install the completely redesigned, simpler track layout.
“Working with the wider rail industry, we’ve managed well with the complex track that was laid over 40 years ago, but this vital stage of the project will make it much more practical for trains coming in and out of the station - meaning more reliable journeys for passengers.
“We’ve carefully planned this project to keep disruption to a minimum, and as we start work at platforms 7-11, trains will be able to use platforms 0-6. We want to thank passengers for their continued patience as we make essential changes to the signalling over the three-day closure.”
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