Angerstein Wharf chord considered

As one of Network Rail’s longer-term aspirations, construction of a new connection to Angerstein Wharf from the Lewisham direction is proposed in its Kent Route Study.

NR argues that the current access is via a tightly curved connection on the Blackheath Tunnel line. Construction of the new chord would cut freight journeys by 21 miles, and also provide additional capacity gaps in the timetable.

Other freight schemes considered is a freight loop at Nunhead, although this would not be able to accommodate 775-metre-long trains.

Gauge clearance works on the Channel Tunnel to Swanley via Maidstone East, Fawkham Junction to Swanley, and Swanley to West London Line via the Catford Loop and Atlantic Lines are also considered, with further work to take place to establish which of the 154 structures over the route will need a gauge clearance assessment.