Crossrail starts trial running

CROSSRAIL COMMENCED trial running through the central core on May 10 in preparation for full services that are expected to start in the first half of 2022. The trials aim to show that the new railway is safe and reliable, and also capable of meeting capacity and performance requirements. Initial running is limited to four empty trains each way per hour, but this will steadily increase to the future timetable level. Next up in the commissioning process will be trial operations, due to get underway later in the year and including train and station evacuation exercises.

London’s Transport Commissioner Andy Byford said: “Reaching this crucial project milestone of running trains through the tunnels is a real testament to the teams who have worked so hard to get the railway ready for trials. There is still much to do, but I know everyone is pulling together. When we open the Elizabeth Line it will make a real difference to those travelling across London; increasing capacity, transforming accessibility and providing a huge economic boost.”