Stations on the Southminster Line

[tubeuser]

A while ago, I was at Southminster Station, waiting for a train to London Liverpool Street. A 12 car train pulled in, but only 8 carriages pulled into the platform and front 4 remained outside. As I was at the front of the platform, I couldn't see how far in the 8 carriages came. Another time I saw a 12 car train to Southminster arrive at Wickford, then the passengers were told to get into the front 8 carriages for stations on to Southminster then the train pulled away with the rear 4 carriages attached. I think most if not all the platforms can take 12 car trains, so why do they do this?

 

[NSEFAN]

My quail map says that Southminster - Woodham Ferrers are only 8 car platforms, with Battlesbridge only being 4 car.

If 12 car trains without through gangways are going to Southminster, it could be that the rear 4 are locked out beyond Wickford. This may be easier than uncoupling/recoupling the trains at Wickford, as such operations take time and can risk not working properly if the coupler is faulty!

 

[tubeuser]

I believe Battlesbtidge is capable of at least 8 cars, as I pass the station regularly but not sure if it can take 12.

 

[306024]

Only Wickford and South Woodham Ferrers can take a 12 car. All the rest can take 8 cars. Selective door operation is needed for 12 car working, which requires a 321/4 at each end of the train, and a guard to cut out the unit that isn't on the platform.

Due to the position of the bi-directional signal in the down platform at Wickford, splitting a 12 car is not straightforward, and attaching is not permitted.