New line’s opening welcomed by supply chain and passenger groups
The new line was welcomed by industry groups and observers, although some were more cautious with their praise.
Describing it as “a bold project”, Railway Industry Association Chief Executive Darren Caplan said it was “really an exceptional achievement for TfL, Government and the UK railway industry”.
He added: “Whether train manufacturing in Derby, station construction in the East Midlands, signalling expertise from Chippenham and Stockport, or telecoms in London, railway businesses from all over the UK have played a key role in making this landmark project happen.”
Norman Baker, from the Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Great news that the
Elizabeth line is up and running, but it’s taken far too long and cost far too much money.
“We want to see more investment in new rail lines across the whole of the country, but the Government must get a better grip on its finances to ensure the public gets value for money and passengers aren’t left waiting years for the next train.”
Train manufacturer Alstom was understandably more upbeat. Managing Director (UK & Ireland) Nick Crossfield said the completed project was “not only a big milestone for the British railway industry, but for all Londoners”, and concluded that it would become one of the world’s leading urban transport operations”.
Engineering and consultancy company Mott MacDonald was involved with the Crossrail project from the earliest stages of its planning and design. Most recently, it led the station integration team testing the commissioning and introduction into service of the ten new central stations from Paddington to Abbey Wood.
Project Director Neil Henderson said: “For me, it is the stories of the people who have worked on Crossrail that bring to life the long journey many of us have been on.
“I am particularly inspired by the stories from apprentices who joined the project after leaving school, and have used their experience and lessons learned from Crossrail to develop and grow their careers.”
Siemens Mobility delivered the central section signalling and the communication and control systems for the new line, on behalf of Crossrail Ltd. CEO Michael Peter said the landmark project “will significantly transform mobility in London and across southeast England”, adding: “We’re so proud that much of the technology was developed and tested in the UK.”
And Arcadis UK Cities Director Peter Hogg summed up: “It’s almost like they planned it this way. London’s long-awaited signature rail project, 20 years in the planning and three and a half years late, finally opens to passengers on the eve of the eponymous monarch’s unprecedented Platinum Jubilee.”