The autumn meeting of the Federation of Metropolitan Line Users’ Committees (FOMLUC) was held on 18th September. The following points emerged:–
The Finchley Road to Baker Street drainage works would be completed on schedule and full evening services would resume on or about 30th December 2018. London Underground were in discussion with the Trades Unions on the effect a change of timetable might have on train crews.
Six “S” stock trains at any one time are returned to Derby for modification work to allow for compatibility with the new signalling system. Additionally some other minor problems such as with seat covers are being assessed.
Jubilee Line train doors opening whilst train in motion: a full enquiry is under way and all LU rolling stock is to be assessed.
Step-free access at Harrow-on-the-Hill Station: The contract has been let to Taylor Woodrow with Otis for the lifts. Hoardings are in place on platforms 1 to 4 and pltforms 5/6 are being cleared. LU are proposing a ramp for the Lowlands Road entrance/exit although there is preference locally for a lift. This will be reconsidered prior to planning applications yet to be submitted. Target time for the completed installation of the lifts is August 2019.
Redevelopment work at Rayners Lane station is underway. LU have not confirmed that numbers of car parking spaces will be maintained as at present. Lifts will not be installed due to the cost of removing and resiting items of infrastructure such as cables.
New signalling system: the schedule has “slipped” due to software problems although projected completion dates will be met. It is reported that the new system will not be installed north of Harrow where tracks are shared with the Chiltern Line although this was said by LU to be “unlikely”.
The delay in the opening of Crossrail to Autumn 2019 will have an adverse effect on LU/TfL finances in the current and 2019/20 fiscal years.