Lewisham station hit by more signal problems
Lewisham station has seen further signal problems today despite numerous closures in recent months to upgrade signalling.
Problems in the area are chronic and a multi-million scheme has not had desired results – as of yet.
In April Network Rail completed a £55m signalling upgrade from Deptford to Woolwich and Lewisham to Falconwood. Since then a £88 million project has been underway from Hither Green to New Eltham resulting in numerous weekend closures – the last of which has just ended.
Despite these projects problems have persisted over the summer and autumn.
Lewisham station has seen huge growth as a result of numerous housing projects. A separate Network Rail project planned to assist with capacity issues at the station has not been confirmed due to delays from the Department for Transport and the election.
Delays to infrastructure coincide with delays to capacity increases as the franchise process was suspended by the DfT, after they blocked devolution of Metro services to TfL.
More pressure is coming soon as demolition work completes on the former Carpetright next to the station. A 35-floor tower is to be built on site.
The DLR will see no additional capacity until 2023 and there is no confirmed funding for the Bakerloo Line extension to Lewisham.
The New Eltham (Sidcup branch) closures was for replacing the outbound track — not just for signalling.
I know the entire project wasn’t solely signalling and the link explains that – but it is a large aspect of work