DLR to see service changes as new train delays drag on
Transport for London are to alter DLR service levels this summer as delays to new trains reach more than 14 months.
A report before TfL’s Board next week states that “further service changes will be required from this summer as we continue to manage the current fleet ahead of the introduction of new trains”.
Some existing trains are nearing 30 years of age with many expected to be scrapped during 2024 and 2025 as the new fleet rolled out. However signal issues have seen delays with the first now due before the end of 2025.
That meant older stock has had to continue for longer than planned, and TfL reduced timetables last month to reduce service running.
The good news is the report shows they still hope to introduce the new stock before the end of this year:
“Since restarting train testing, we have made good progress and completed testing of the line-side signalling system.
“While significant assurance activities still need to be completed, we remain on track to introduce the first new train later this year and replace the B92 fleet by the end of 2026 as originally planned.”
It can’t come soon enough; not only has delays caused older trains to run longer than planned but TfL are having to pay to store completed trains at manufacturer CAF in Spain.
Ongoing weekend testing is also seeing extensive closures hitting fare revenue.
When the fleet rollout is complete a total of 54 air conditioned walk-thorough trains will replace 33 currently running leading to an increase in service frequency.
The first route set to benefit is Lewisham to Canary Wharf and Stratford serving a number of substantial areas of development.
I would imagine that the new B24 Stock wouldn’t be in service until late this year or early next year. Given how the delays have caused lots of problems with the new DLR trains that they should have entered service late last year.
B23 Stock you mean. But yes I agree with what you commented.
I do believe that the new DLR B23 Stocks manufactured in Spain could enter service before or after Christmas this year. Or to begin entering passenger service from early/mid next year.