In the past 15 years, the number of trains using the West Coast Main Line has doubled - and it's getting busier. Much of the infrastructure around Watford dates from the 1960s and with trains running around the clock, it's becoming increasingly unreliable.
Over a series of seven weekends from August 2014 to April 2015, Network Rail will be replacing three critical junctions to the north and south of Watford and renewing the signalling system in the area. It will also replace the track crossovers with track that is easier to maintain, reducing future disruption due to maintenance, resulting in fewer delays, better punctuality and providing more comfortable journeys.
The Improvement works, when complete, will:
- Renew all signalling between Kings Langley and Bushey allowing greater flexibility, and quicker return to a normal service after disruption
- Lay over 15km (9 miles) of new track giving a smoother journey
- Modify the overhead line equipment to make it more reliable
- Reconstruct Orphanage Road Bridge to allow for future line speeds of 125 mph
The line between Watford Junction and London Euston will be closed on the following weekends in August to allow for this work:
- Saturday 9 August to Monday 11 August
- Saturday 16 August to Monday 18 August
- Saturday 23 August to Tuesday 26 August
Details of the impact of the work on train services will be published in the Future engineering works section as soon as the train plans have been finalised.
