Elizabeth line
{{Short description|Railway in London, England}}
{{Other uses|Elizabeth Line (disambiguation)}}
{{Use British English|date=July 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox rail service
| name = Elizabeth line
| color = purple
| image = 345001 ABW.jpg
| image_width = 300px
| caption = An Elizabeth line train (British Rail Class 345) at Abbey Wood in May 2022
| logo = Elizabeth line roundel.svg
| logo_width = 150px
| type =
| system = National Rail
| predecessor = TfL Rail
| first = {{start date and age|2022|05|24|df=y}}
| locale = {{plainlist|
}}
| start = West: {{rws|Heathrow Terminal 4}}, {{stn|Heathrow Terminal 5}} and {{rws|Reading}}
| end = East: {{rws|Abbey Wood}} and {{rws|Shenfield}}
| stops = 41
| routes =
| owners = {{indented plainlist|
- Transport for London ({{rws|Old Oak Common}}–Abbey Wood and {{stn|Stratford}})
- Network Rail (Pudding Mill Lane–Shenfield, and Old Oak Common–Reading)
- Heathrow Airport Holdings (Heathrow branch)
}}
| operator = GTS Rail Operations{{cite press release|url=https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2024/november/gts-rail-operations-limited-announced-as-new-operator-for-the-elizabeth-line/|title=GTS Rail Operations Limited announced as new operator for the Elizabeth line|website=Transport for London|date=19 November 2024|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 November 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241121185144/https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2024/november/gts-rail-operations-limited-announced-as-new-operator-for-the-elizabeth-line/}}
| stock = Class 345
| gauge = {{Track gauge|sg|allk=on}}
| electrification = {{25 kV 50 Hz|conductor=overhead}}
| speed = {{indented plainlist|
- Crossrail: {{cvt|95|kph|round=5}}
- GWML, Heathrow and GEML: {{cvt|145|kph|round=5}}
}}
| ridership2 = 220 million (2023/2024){{cite web |url=https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/statistics/usage/passenger-rail-usage/table-1223-passenger-journeys-by-operator/ |title=Passenger journeys by operator |publisher=Office of Rail and Road |access-date=29 August 2024 }} passenger journeys
| website = {{Official URL}}
| map = {{London rail lines}}
| map_state = collapsed
| map_name = Transport for London {{nowrap|rail lines}}
}}
The Elizabeth line is a railway line that runs across Greater London and nearby towns, operating similarly to the RER in Paris and the S-Bahn systems of German-speaking countries.https://learninglegacy.crossrail.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossrail-project-to-Elizabeth-line-operations-Operational-approach-and-lessons-learned.pdf It runs services on dedicated infrastructure in central London from the Great Western Main Line west of Paddington station to {{rws|Abbey Wood}} and via Whitechapel to the Great Eastern Main Line near {{stn|Stratford}}; along the Great Western Main Line to {{rws|Reading}} and Heathrow Airport in the west; and along the Great Eastern Main Line to {{rws|Shenfield}} in the east.
Under the project name of Crossrail, the system was approved in 2007, and construction began in 2009. Originally planned to open in 2018, the project was repeatedly delayed, including for several months as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The service is now named after Queen Elizabeth II, who officially opened the line on 17 May 2022 during her Platinum Jubilee year; passenger services started on 24 May 2022.
Elizabeth line services are operated by GTS Rail Operations under a concession from Transport for London (TfL). TfL does not consider it to be part of its other rail services such as the London Underground. It is considered to be in a class of its own and TfL's Oyster card is not valid for journeys to outlying stations.{{citation |last=Lydall |first=Ross |date=2023-10-10 |title=Is it a Tube or a train? TfL admits ‘confusing’ Elizabeth line fares |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/elizabeth-line-tfl-tube-train-fare-capping-confusion-b1112507.html |newspaper=Evening Standard |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Matters |first=Transport for London {{!}} Every Journey |title=GTS Rail Operations Limited announced as new operator for the Elizabeth line |url=https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2024/november/gts-rail-operations-limited-announced-as-new-operator-for-the-elizabeth-line |access-date=2025-05-25 |website=Transport for London |language=en-GB}}
The line reached over 200 million trips annually in its second year of operation and carries one seventh of all trips by rail in the United Kingdom.{{citation |last=Soanes |first=Matt |date=2022-05-30 |title=More than two million trips made on Elizabeth Line in just five days |url=https://www.hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/essex/news/more-than-two-million-trips-made-on-elizabeth-line-in-just-five-days |newspaper=Rayo |language=en}}
History
{{main|History of the Crossrail project|Crossrail|TfL Rail}}
In 2001, Cross London Rail Links (CLRL), a 50/50 joint-venture between Transport for London (TfL) and the Department for Transport (DfT), was formed to develop and promote the Crossrail scheme,{{cite web |title=Sponsors and Partners |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/company/sponsors-partners#.T7MQG-j7jIA |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120730184042/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/company/sponsors-partners%23.UBbVIago9Rx#.T7MQG-j7jIA |archive-date=30 July 2012 |access-date=4 March 2017 |publisher=Crossrail |quote=Crossrail Limited is the company charged with delivering Crossrail. Formerly known as Cross London Rail Links (CLRL), it was created in 2001 [..] Established as a 50/50 joint venture company between Transport for London and the Department for Transport, Crossrail Limited became a wholly owned subsidiary of TfL on 5 December 2008}} and also a Wimbledon–Hackney scheme, Crossrail 2. In 2003 and 2004, over 50{{nbsp}}days of exhibitions were held to explain the proposals at over 30 different locations.{{cite web |date=n.d. |title=History of Crossrail |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/the-railway/getting-approval/background |publisher=Crossrail |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090602171852/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/the-railway/getting-approval/background |archivedate=2 June 2009}}{{primary source inline|date=October 2013}}
= 2005 route development =
In 2005, ahead of Crossrail's hybrid bill submission, a number of feeder routes were considered by CLRL west of Paddington and east of Liverpool Street. It was viewed, given the 24{{nbsp}}trains-per-hour (tph) core frequency, that two feeder routes, each of 12{{nbsp}}tph, could be taken forward.{{Cite web |date=2020-09-26 |title=Crossrail Information Paper: Development of the Crossrail Route |url=https://2577f60fe192df40d16a-ab656259048fb93837ecc0ecbcf0c557.ssl.cf3.rackcdn.com/assets/library/document/a/original/a1developmentofthecrossrailroute.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926054620/https://2577f60fe192df40d16a-ab656259048fb93837ecc0ecbcf0c557.ssl.cf3.rackcdn.com/assets/library/document/a/original/a1developmentofthecrossrailroute.pdf |archive-date=26 September 2020 |access-date=2021-12-04 |website=Crossrail}}
In the west, a route to Maidenhead (later extended to Reading) and Heathrow Airport was selected. In the east, routes to Abbey Wood (curtailed from Ebbsfleet to avoid conflicts with the North Kent lines) and Shenfield were selected.
= Approval =
The Crossrail Act 2008 authorising the construction project received royal assent on 22 July 2008.{{cite web |title=Crossrail Bill 2005 |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/the-railway/getting-approval/parliamentary-bill |url-status=dead |publisher=Crossrail |accessdate=30 December 2009 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090803115157/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/the-railway/getting-approval/parliamentary-bill |archivedate=3 August 2009}}{{cite news |author= |date=13 November 2009 |title=Soho shops make way for Crossrail |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/8358924.stm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220123150519/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/8358924.stm |archive-date=23 January 2022 |access-date=4 March 2017 |work=BBC News}} In December 2008, TfL and the DfT announced that they had signed the "Crossrail Sponsors' Agreement". This committed them to financing the project, then projected to cost £15.9{{nbsp}}billion, with further contributions from Network Rail, BAA,{{Cite news |date=2008-11-04 |title=Crossrail gets £230m BAA funding |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/7707338.stm |access-date=2022-10-06 |archive-date=13 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221013005136/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/7707338.stm |url-status=live }} and the City of London.{{Cite news |date=2011-11-18 |title=Why the City of London Corporation supported Crossrail |language=en-GB |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-15764281 |access-date=2022-10-06 |archive-date=6 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221006004234/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-15764281 |url-status=live }}
= Construction =
{{main|Crossrail}}
File:Crossrail construction TCR.jpg
Work began on 15 May 2009, when piling works started at the future Canary Wharf station.{{Cite news |author=Gerrard, Neil|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090517055909/http://www.contractjournal.com/Articles/2009/05/15/67882/work-officially-starts-on-crossrail-photos.html |archive-date=17 May 2009 |url=http://www.contractjournal.com/Articles/2009/05/15/67882/work-officially-starts-on-crossrail-photos.html |title=Work officially starts on Crossrail |work=Contract Journal |date=15 May 2009}}
Boring of the railway tunnels was officially completed in June 2015.{{cite press release |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/prime-minister-and-mayor-of-london-celebrate-completion-of-crossrails-tunnelling-marathon |title=Prime Minister and Mayor of London celebrate completion of Crossrail's tunnelling marathon |publisher=Crossrail |date=4 June 2015 |access-date=27 June 2015 |author=MacLennan, Peter |archive-date=15 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515170846/https://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/prime-minister-and-mayor-of-london-celebrate-completion-of-crossrails-tunnelling-marathon |url-status=dead }} Installation of the track was completed in September 2017.{{Cite web|url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/elizabeth-line-permanent-track-installation-is-complete|title=Elizabeth line permanent track installation is complete|website=Crossrail|access-date=16 May 2022|archive-date=15 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515180529/https://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/elizabeth-line-permanent-track-installation-is-complete|url-status=dead}} The European Train Control System (ETCS) signalling was scheduled to be tested in the Heathrow tunnels over the winter of 2017–2018.{{cite web|url=http://content.tfl.gov.uk/pic-20171212-item13-elizabeth-line.pdf|title=Elizabeth Line Operational Readiness and Integration|date=12 December 2017|website=Transport for London|access-date=7 January 2020|archive-date=24 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524070648/https://content.tfl.gov.uk/pic-20171212-item13-elizabeth-line.pdf|url-status=live}}
At the end of August 2018, four months before the scheduled opening of the core section of the line, it was announced that completion was delayed and that the line would not open before autumn 2019.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-45367990|title=Crossrail to miss December opening date|date=31 August 2018|work=BBC News|access-date=14 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914135030/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-45367990|archive-date=14 September 2018}} After multiple delays, in August 2020 Crossrail announced that the central section would be ready to open "in the first half of 2022".{{Cite news|title=Crossrail needs extra £450m and delayed until 2022|work=BBC News|date=21 August 2020|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-53847738|access-date=21 August 2020|language=en|archive-date=15 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515165333/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-53847738|url-status=live}}
On 17 May 2022, the line was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in honour of her Platinum Jubilee. She was not scheduled to attend the event, but decided to attend with her son, Prince Edward, to unveil the plaque commemorating the official opening.{{Cite news |last=Ward |first=Victoria |date=2022-05-17 |title='One ticket for the Elizabeth line please': Queen opens Crossrail and gets an Oyster card |language=en-GB |work=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2022/05/17/queen-smiles-officially-opens-londons-elizabeth-line/ |access-date=2022-05-17 |issn=0307-1235 |archive-date=28 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220528135514/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/royal-family/2022/05/17/queen-smiles-officially-opens-londons-elizabeth-line/ |url-status=live | url-access = subscription}}
= Timeline =
Though the main tunnels under central London had not yet been opened, passenger operations on the outer branches of the future Elizabeth line were transferred to TfL for inclusion in the concession – this took place over several stages beginning May 2015. During this initial phase of operation, services were operated by MTR under the TfL Rail brand. Following the practice adopted during the transfer of former Silverlink services to London Overground in 2007, TfL carried out a deep clean of stations and trains on the future Elizabeth line route, installed new ticket machines and barriers, introduced Oyster card and contactless payment, and ensured all stations were staffed. Existing rolling stock was rebranded with the TfL Rail identity.
Route
{{See also|Crossrail#Route}}
The Elizabeth line runs on an east–west axis across the London region, with branches terminating at Abbey Wood and Shenfield in the east, and at Heathrow Terminal 4, Heathrow Terminal 5 and Reading in the west. There are 41 stations. In the central section, there are interchanges with London Underground, National Rail, and Docklands Light Railway lines.{{cite web |title=Elizabeth line with services into central London from Reading, Heathrow, and Shenfield from 6 November |url=https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2022/august/elizabeth-line-with-services-into-central-london-from-reading-heathrow-and-shenfield-from-6-november |website=Transport for London |access-date=6 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824075903/https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2022/august/elizabeth-line-with-services-into-central-london-from-reading-heathrow-and-shenfield-from-6-november |archive-date=24 August 2022 |date=23 August 2022 |url-status=live}}
{{Wide image|CrossrailLine1Map.svg|1200px}}
{{multiple image
| align = center
| total_width = 600
| header = The Elizabeth line in the London transport network
| image1 = London Underground, Elizabeth Line and Docklands Light Railway with Greater London map.svg
| alt1 = Geographical map of London rail and tube
| caption1 = Geographical map
| image2 = London Underground Overground DLR Crossrail map.svg
| alt2 = Schematic map of London rail and tube
| caption2 = Schematic map (interactive)
| footer = Routes of the Elizabeth line (in purple, from middle of left edge to right edge), shown with London Underground and the Docklands Light Railway connections
}}
Design and infrastructure
= Name and identity =
Crossrail is the name of the construction project and of the limited company, wholly owned by TfL, that was formed to carry out construction works.{{cite web |url=https://www.tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/documents/rup-20150212-part-1-item-09-crossrail.pdf |title=Crossrail – Moving to the Operating Railway |author=Rail and Underground Panel |date=12 February 2015 |publisher=Transport for London|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213113944/https://www.tfl.gov.uk/cdn/static/cms/documents/rup-20150212-part-1-item-09-crossrail.pdf |url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=About Crossrail Ltd |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/about-us/ |website=Crossrail |access-date=14 September 2018 |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914103132/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/about-us/}}
The Elizabeth line is the name of the new service that is on signage throughout the stations. It is named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.{{cite news |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/crossrail-named-the-elizabeth-line-royal-title-unveiled-as-the-queen-visits-bond-street-a3186791.html |title=Crossrail named the Elizabeth line: Royal title unveiled as the Queen visits Bond Street station |last=Jobson |first=Robert |date=23 February 2016 |work=London Evening Standard |access-date=23 February 2016 |archive-date=25 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160225041023/http://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/crossrail-named-the-elizabeth-line-royal-title-unveiled-as-the-queen-visits-bond-street-a3186791.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite news|title=Crossrail to be named Elizabeth line in honour of the Queen|url=https://theguardian.com/uk-news/2016/feb/23/crossrail-named-elizabeth-line-honour-of-the-queen|access-date=8 January 2022|work=The Guardian|archive-date=10 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220310174950/https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2016/feb/23/crossrail-named-elizabeth-line-honour-of-the-queen|url-status=live}} The Elizabeth line roundel is coloured purple, with a superimposed blue bearing white text in the same style as for Underground lines. However, unlike Underground lines, the Elizabeth line roundel includes the word "line".
TfL Rail was an intermediate brand name which was introduced in May 2015 and discontinued in May 2022. It was used by TfL on services between Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 5 and Reading, as well as trains between Liverpool Street and Shenfield.{{cite web |title=Elizabeth line Design Idiom |url=http://content.tfl.gov.uk/elizabeth-line-design-idiom.pdf |publisher=Transport for London |access-date=14 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914105614/http://content.tfl.gov.uk/elizabeth-line-design-idiom.pdf |archive-date=14 September 2018 |date=6 December 2017 |url-status=live}}
= Stations =
{{Crossrail RDT}}
class="wikitable"
|+Elizabeth line station information !Station !Image !Line section !TfL service began !Interchanges |
Reading
|File:General Railway Pictures 2019 337.jpg |rowspan=9|Reading branch |rowspan=9|{{Start date|2019|12|15|df=y}} |{{ubli|indent=1em|{{rint|gb|rail}} CrossCountry|{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western|{{rint|gb|rail}} South Western}} |
Twyford
|File:Twyford - TfL 345010 Reading service.JPG |{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western |
Maidenhead
|File:Maidenhead station fast look east.jpg |{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western |
Taplow
|File:Taplow - TfL 345020 Reading service.JPG | |
Burnham
|File:Burnham station westbound look west.jpg | |
Slough
|File:General Railway Pictures 2020 371.jpg |{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western |
Langley
|File:Langley station slow look west3.jpg | |
Iver
|File:Iver station high westbound.jpg | |
West Drayton
|File:West Drayton Station - geograph.org.uk - 3301559.jpg | |
style="border-top:4px solid #ccc"
|Heathrow Terminal 5 |File:Heathrow Connect 360205, Heathrow Terminal 5 (16770040139).jpg |rowspan=3|Heathrow branch |{{Start date|2020|05|09|df=y}} |{{ubl|{{rint|london|heathrowexpress}} Heathrow Express|{{rint|london|piccadilly}} Piccadilly line}} |
Heathrow Terminal 4 {{rint|air|link=Heathrow Airport}} |File:Heathrow Terminal 4 mainline platform.JPG |rowspan=2|{{Start date|2018|05|20|df=y}} | |
Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 {{rint|air|link=Heathrow Airport}} |File:Heathrow Central platform.JPG |{{rint|london|heathrowexpress}} Heathrow Express |
style="border-top:4px solid #ccc"
|File:Hayes and Harlington - TfL 345002, 345033 and 345004.JPG |rowspan=2|Reading and Heathrow branches |rowspan=6|{{Start date|2018|05|20|df=y}} | |
Southall
|File:Southall station building, 2021.jpg | |
Hanwell
|File:Hanwell - TfL 345048 Paddington service.JPG |rowspan=2|Heathrow branch{{efn|name=reading_skip|Reading branch services skip Hanwell, West Ealing, and Acton Main Line stations}} | |
West Ealing
|File:West Ealing - TfL 345048 and 345004.JPG |{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western |
Ealing Broadway
|File:1992Tube-345017-EalingBdwy-P1460851 (28217176417).jpg |Reading and Heathrow branches |{{ubl|{{rint|london|central}} Central line|{{rint|london|district}} District line}} |
Acton Main Line
|File:Acton Main Line station building, 2021.jpg |Heathrow branch{{efn|name=reading_skip}} | |
style="border-top:4px solid #ccc"
|Paddington{{efn|name=Paddington National Rail|Some early-morning and late-night services instead use the National Rail terminal platforms}} |File:Paddington Crossrail entrance, 2021.jpg |rowspan=6|Core |{{Start date|2022|05|24|df=y}}{{efn|Services using the National Rail terminal platforms commenced on 20 May 2018}} |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western|{{rint|london|heathrowexpress}} Heathrow Express|{{rint|london|bakerloo}} Bakerloo line{{efn|name=Praed Street|From Paddington (Bakerloo, Circle, and District) tube station}}|{{rint|london|circle}} Circle line{{efn|name=Praed Street}}{{efn|name=Bishops Road|From Paddingdon (Circle and Hammersmith & City) tube station}}|{{rint|london|district}} District line{{efn|name=Praed Street}}|{{rint|london|hammersmith}} Hammersmith & City line{{efn|name=Bishops Road}}}} |
{{stn|Bond Street}}
|File:Bond Street stn Elizabeth line 25th Oct 2022 15.jpg |{{Start date|2022|10|24|df=y}} |{{ubl|{{rint|london|central}} Central line|{{rint|london|jubilee}} Jubilee line}} |
Tottenham Court Road
|File:Tottenham Court Road stn Elizabeth Line 26th May 2022 10.jpg |rowspan="2"|{{Start date|2022|05|24|df=y}} |{{ubl|{{rint|london|central}} Central line|{{rint|london|northern}} Northern line}} |
Farringdon
|File:Crossrail platform at Farringdon.jpg |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} Thameslink|{{rint|london|circle}} Circle line|{{rint|london|hammersmith}} Hammersmith & City line|{{rint|london|metropolitan}} Metropolitan line}} |
Liverpool Street{{efn|name=Liverpool Street National Rail|Some early-morning, late-night, and peak-time services instead use the National Rail terminal platforms}}
|File:Elizabeth_line_entrance,_Liverpool_Street_station_-_2022-06-03.jpg |{{Start date|2022|05|24|df=y}}{{efn|Services using the National Rail terminal platforms commenced on 31 May 2015}} |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} c2c{{efn|name=c2c|Only limited service}}|{{rint|gb|rail}} Greater Anglia|{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Northern{{efn|name=Moorgate|From Moorgate station}}|{{rint|london|overground|weaver}} Weaver line|{{rint|london|central}} Central line|{{rint|london|circle}} Circle line|{{rint|london|hammersmith}} Hammersmith & City line|{{rint|london|metropolitan}} Metropolitan line|{{rint|london|northern}} Northern line{{efn|name=Moorgate}}}} |
Whitechapel
|File:Whitechapel Crossrail ticket hall.jpg |{{Start date|2022|05|24|df=y}} |{{ubl|{{rint|london|overground|windrush}} Windrush line|{{rint|london|district}} District line|{{rint|london|hammersmith}} Hammersmith & City line}} |
style="border-top:4px solid #ccc"
|File:Canary Wharf railway station MMB 05.jpg |rowspan=4|{{avoid wrap|Abbey Wood}} branch |rowspan=4|{{Start date|2022|05|24|df=y}} |{{ubl|{{rint|london|jubilee}} Jubilee line{{efn|From Canary Wharf tube station}}|{{rint|london|dlr}} Docklands Light Railway{{efn|From Canary Wharf, Poplar, and West India Quay DLR stations}}}} |
Custom House
|File:Custom House station building exterior.jpg |{{rint|london|dlr}} Docklands Light Railway |
Woolwich
|File:Woolwich_Elizabeth_line_station_exterior_24-05-2022.jpg |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} Southeastern{{efn|name=Woolwich|From Woolwich Arsenal station}}|{{rint|gb|rail}} Thameslink{{efn|name=Woolwich}}|{{rint|london|dlr}} Docklands Light Railway{{efn|name=Woolwich}}}} |
Abbey Wood
|File:Abbey_Wood_stn_Elizabeth_Line_25th_May_2022_11.jpg |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} Southeastern|{{rint|gb|rail}} Thameslink}} |
style="border-top:4px solid #ccc"
|rowspan=13|Shenfield branch |rowspan=13|{{Start date|2015|05|31|df=y}} |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} c2c{{efn|name=c2c}}|{{rint|gb|rail}} Greater Anglia|{{rint|london|overground|mildmay}} Mildmay line|{{rint|london|central}} Central line|{{rint|london|jubilee}} Jubilee line|{{rint|london|dlr}} Docklands Light Railway}} |
Maryland
|File:Maryland station slow look west2.JPG | |
Forest Gate
|File:Forest Gate stn slow look east.JPG |{{rint|london|overground|suffragette}} Suffragette line{{efn|From Wanstead Park station}} |
Manor Park
|File:Manor Park stn slow look east2.JPG | |
Ilford
|File:Class345-Ilford-P1410159.jpg | |
Seven Kings
|File:Seven-Kings-Stn-P1600735 (49177743677).jpg | |
Goodmayes
|File:Goodmayes station slow look east.JPG | |
Chadwell Heath
|File:ChadwellHeath-Stn-P1610837 (49177398011).jpg | |
Romford
|File:Romford pl 3 from pl 2 up, 2021.jpg |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} Greater Anglia|{{rint|london|overground|liberty}} Liberty Line}} |
Gidea Park
|File:Gidea Park stn slow westbound look west.JPG | |
Harold Wood
|File:Harold Wood stn eastbound entrance 2012.JPG | |
Brentwood
|File:Brentwood station slow platforms look east1.JPG | |
Shenfield
|File:Unit 345007 at Shenfield 7th July 2017 01.jpg |{{rint|gb|rail}} Greater Anglia |
{{notelist}}
File:Crossrail platform at Farringdon.jpg
Ten new stations have been built in the central and south east sections of the line, and 31 existing stations were upgraded and refurbished.{{Cite web|url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/crossrail-in-numbers|title=Crossrail in numbers|website=Crossrail|language=en|access-date=8 March 2020|archive-date=30 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730181725/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/crossrail-in-numbers|url-status=dead}} Nine of the ten new-build stations opened for revenue service on 24 May 2022; the remaining station{{snd}}Bond Street{{snd}}required additional finishing works before commissioning could proceed.{{cite magazine |url=https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/crossrail-bond-street-to-miss-elizabeth-line-opening-tfl-boss-confirms-09-02-2022/ |title= Crossrail: Bond Street to miss Elizabeth line opening, TfL boss confirms |magazine= New Civil Engineer |date= 9 February 2022 |first1= Rob |last1= Hakimian |access-date= 17 May 2022 |archive-date= 20 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220520061017/https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/crossrail-bond-street-to-miss-elizabeth-line-opening-tfl-boss-confirms-09-02-2022/ |url-status= live }}{{Cite magazine |last=Kennedy |first=Catherine |date=11 February 2022 |title=Bond Street: The story behind Crossrail's problem station |url=https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/bond-street-the-story-behind-crossrails-problem-station-11-02-2022/ |access-date=14 April 2022 |magazine=New Civil Engineer |language=en |archive-date=31 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220531092350/https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/bond-street-the-story-behind-crossrails-problem-station-11-02-2022/ |url-status=live }} Trains passed through its platforms non-stop until it opened five months later on 24 October.{{Cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-63364938 |title=Bond Street station finally opens on Elizabeth Line |date=24 October 2022 |work=BBC News |publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=24 October 2022 |archive-date=24 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221024055911/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-63364938 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=Bond Street's new Elizabeth line station now open |url=https://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/bond-streets-new-elizabeth-line-station-now-open |date=24 October 2022 |access-date=5 November 2022 |website=Crossrail |language=en |archive-date=25 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025113055/https://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/bond-streets-new-elizabeth-line-station-now-open |url-status=dead }} All stations are equipped with CCTV{{Cite web|url=http://content.tfl.gov.uk/board-20161215-item13-crossrail-services-transition.pdf|title=Transport for London Board Meeting 15 December 2016 - Crossrail Services and Transition|date=15 December 2016|website=Transport for London|access-date=8 March 2020|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105045654/http://content.tfl.gov.uk/board-20161215-item13-crossrail-services-transition.pdf|url-status=live}} and because of the length of trains, central stations have train indicators above the platform-edge doors.{{cite news |date=16 March 2011 |title=Future of London transport revealed at secret site |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-12764741 |url-status=live |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515140435/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-12764741 |archive-date=15 May 2022}}
All 41 stations are step-free from street to platform.{{Cite web |date=18 November 2014 |title=Government confirms step-free access funding for Crossrail |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/government-confirms-step-free-access-funding-for-crossrail |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515141940/https://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/government-confirms-step-free-access-funding-for-crossrail |archive-date=15 May 2022 |access-date=8 March 2020 |website=Crossrail |language=en}} Thirteen stations (the central and Heathrow stations) have level access between trains and platforms while other outer suburban platforms remain at their pre-existing height, about 200mm lower.{{Cite news |last=Dennis |first=Gareth |date=May 2023 |title=Time to "mind the gap" once and for all |work=Railway Gazette International |pages=40}} This platform height difference was criticised by the Campaign for Level Boarding who said Crossrail's "poor decision making" meant "this brand-new railway has cornered itself into perpetually offering an inaccessible service."
Although the trains are {{convert|200|m|abbr=off}} long, platforms at the new stations in the central core are built to enable {{convert|240|m|ft|adj=mid|sigfig=2|-long}} trains in case of possible future need. In the eastern section, {{rws|Maryland}} and {{rws|Manor Park}} have not had platform extensions, so trains use selective door opening instead.{{cite news |url=http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/news/travel/forest_gate_station_crossrail_design_work_contract_awarded_1_861319 |title=Forest Gate station Crossrail design work contract awarded |first=Matt |last=Nicholls |date=11 April 2011 |work=Newham Recorder |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=18 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318002157/http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/news/travel/forest_gate_station_crossrail_design_work_contract_awarded_1_861319 |url-status=live }} At Maryland this is because of the prohibitive cost of extensions and the poor business case,{{cite web |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200708/ldselect/ldcross/112/8022707.htm |title=House of Lords Select Committee on the Crossrail Bill: Minutes of Evidence |publisher=UK Parliament |date=27 May 2008 |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=15 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515141650/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200708/ldselect/ldcross/112/8022707.htm |url-status=live }} and at Manor Park it is due to the presence of a freight loop that would otherwise be cut off.{{cite web |title=House of Lords Select Committee on the Crossrail Bill: Minutes of Evidence (Questions 1060–1079) |publisher=UK Parliament |date=27 May 2008 |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200708/ldselect/ldcross/112/8022704.htm |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=15 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515140428/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200708/ldselect/ldcross/112/8022704.htm |url-status=live }}
== Future stations ==
{{As of|2024}}, Old Oak Common railway station is under construction. It will provide an interchange with the High Speed 2 service.
class="wikitable"
!Station !Image !Line section !Opening !Interchanges |
Old Oak Common
|{{N/A}} |{{ubl|{{rint|gb|rail}} Avanti West Coast|{{rint|gb|rail}} Great Western|{{rint|london|heathrowexpress}} Heathrow Express}} |
= Rolling stock =
{{Main|British Rail Class 345}}
class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
|+Current rolling stock |
Name
!Manufacturer !Number built !Entered service !Currently owned !Currently active |
---|
Class 345 Aventra
|70 |2017 |70 |70 |
class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
|+Retired rolling stock |
Name
!Manufacturer !Number built !Entered service !Retired !Currently owned !Replacement |
---|
Class 315 BREL 1972
|British Rail Engineering Limited |61 | 1980 |2022 |1 preserved |
File:Unit 345007 at Shenfield 7th July 2017 06.jpg unit at {{rws|Shenfield}} in 2017|left]]
Services on the Elizabeth line are operated exclusively by a fleet of nine-car Class 345 trains that was procured especially for this purpose.{{cite press release |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/crossrail-rolling-stock-and-depot-contract-to-be-awarded-to-bombardier |title=Crossrail rolling stock and depot contract to be awarded to Bombardier |publisher=Department for Transport |publication-place=London |date=6 February 2014 |access-date=6 February 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808153029/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/crossrail-rolling-stock-and-depot-contract-to-be-awarded-to-bombardier |url-status=live }} The service specifications called for approximately 60 trains, each {{convert|200|m|abbr=off}} long and capable of carrying up to 1,500 passengers, of which 57 would be in service at any one time.{{cite news |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/nc/news/single-view/view/crossrail-issues-rolling-stock-shortlist.html |title=Crossrail issues rolling stock shortlist |work=Railway Gazette International |publisher=DVV Media International |place=Sutton |date=30 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710002432/http://www.railwaygazette.com/nc/news/single-view/view/crossrail-issues-rolling-stock-shortlist.html |archive-date=10 July 2011 |url-status=dead |access-date=5 January 2023}}{{cite magazine |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/nc/news/single-view/view/crossrail-rolling-stock-contract-invitations-to-negotiate-issued/archiv/2012/02.html |magazine=Railway Gazette International |title=Crossrail rolling stock contract invitations to negotiate issued |date=28 February 2012 |publisher=DVV Media International |place=Sutton |access-date=5 January 2023 |archive-date=2 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302062523/http://www.railwaygazette.com/nc/news/single-view/view/crossrail-rolling-stock-contract-invitations-to-negotiate-issued/archiv/2012/02.html |url-status=dead}} In March 2011, Crossrail indicated that five bidders had been shortlisted as potential suppliers of both the new fleet and its depot facilities; Alstom, CAF, Siemens Mobility, Hitachi Rail, and Bombardier Transportation{{snd}}although Alstom withdrew four months later. Crossrail issued invitations to negotiate to the remaining bidders in March 2012, with submission of tenders expected between June and August. It was stipulated that bidders should offer a fleet based on technology that was "already developed", with the expectation that an "evolutionary, not revolutionary" product would help to ensure "value for money" and "[the] utmost reliability from day one". Siemens withdrew their rolling stock bid in July 2013, citing an increase in other business and a need to protect their "ability to deliver ... current customer commitments", which included the £1.6 billion {{brc|700}} order for Thameslink. Their contract to supply Crossrail's signalling and control systems was unaffected.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23199082 |title=Siemens withdraws from Crossrail bid |date=5 July 2013 |access-date=6 July 2013 |work=BBC News |publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation |archive-date=17 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517223200/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23199082 |url-status=live }}
In December 2013, the European Investment Bank (EIB) agreed to provide TfL loans of up to £500 million to fund the rolling stock procurement, following TfL's decision in March of that year to abandon plans to cover most of the cost with private financing.{{cite news |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/eib-provides-pound500m-loan-for-crossrail-trains.html |title=EIB provides £500m loan for Crossrail trains |date=13 December 2013 |work=Railway Gazette International |publisher=DVV Media International |place=Sutton |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116194009/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/eib-provides-pound500m-loan-for-crossrail-trains.html |archive-date=16 January 2014 |access-date=5 January 2023}}
TfL and the DfT announced in early February 2014 that Bombardier's bid had been successful. The 32-year contract for the supply and maintenance of the trains and depot was valued at £1 billion. It included a firm order for 65 units from Bombardier's new Aventra family, plus an option for a further 18.{{cite news |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/bombardier-wins-crossrail-train-contract.html |title=Bombardier wins Crossrail train contract |date=6 February 2014 |work=Railway Gazette International |publisher=DVV Media International |place=Sutton |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140617075043/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/bombardier-wins-crossrail-train-contract.html |archive-date=17 June 2014 |access-date=5 January 2023}}{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-26063121 |title=Bombardier wins £1bn Crossrail deal |work=BBC News |publisher=British Broadcasting Corporation |date=6 February 2014 |access-date=5 January 2023 |archive-date=15 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515141731/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-26063121 |url-status=live }} The trains have air-conditioning and are designed to be as accessible as possible, including wide aisles and gangways, dedicated areas for wheelchairs, audio and visual announcements, CCTV, and passenger intercoms connected to the driver for use in the event of emergency.{{cite press release |title=Crossrail demonstrates commitment to disability equality |publisher=Crossrail |date=21 September 2009 |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/press-releases/crossrail-demonstrates-commitment-to-disability-equality|access-date=16 March 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028130430/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/press-releases/crossrail-demonstrates-commitment-to-disability-equality|archive-date=28 October 2012|url-status=dead}} They will run at up to {{convert|90|mph|abbr=on}} on certain parts of the route.{{cite web|title=Crossrail trains take shape|url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/crossrail-trains-take-shape|publisher=Crossrail|access-date=14 November 2015|archive-date=20 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920012445/https://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/crossrail-trains-take-shape|url-status=dead}}
Due to limited platform lengths at both Liverpool Street and Paddington National Rail stations, most Class 345 units were initially delivered as seven-car formations, then later extended to the intended nine.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/liverpool-street-platform-extensions-complete-for-elizabeth-line-16-04-2021/|date=16 April 2021|title=Liverpool Street platform extensions complete for Elizabeth line|first=Catherine|last=Kennedy|magazine=New Civil Engineer|access-date=16 May 2022|archive-date=16 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516084720/https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/liverpool-street-platform-extensions-complete-for-elizabeth-line-16-04-2021/|url-status=live}} The first unit entered service on 22 June 2017, between Liverpool Street and Shenfield.{{cite news|last1=Clinnick|first1=Richard|title=Delayed start for first Crossrail Aventra|url=http://www.railmagazine.com/news/fleet/delayed-start-for-first-crossrail-aventra|access-date=1 June 2017|work=Rail Magazine|date=31 May 2017|archive-date=31 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170531175748/http://www.railmagazine.com/news/fleet/delayed-start-for-first-crossrail-aventra|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |url=http://www.essexlive.news/start-of-crossrail-trains-from-shenfield-delayed-until-at-least-june/story-30362701-detail/story.html |title=Two years on |access-date=30 May 2017 |work=Crossrail Bulletin |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530203731/http://www.essexlive.news/start-of-crossrail-trains-from-shenfield-delayed-until-at-least-june/story-30362701-detail/story.html |archive-date=30 May 2017 |url-status=dead}} TfL exercised an option to acquire a further five units in July 2017, bringing the total number on order to 70.{{cite news |last1=Clinnick |first1=Richard |title=Five more Aventras ordered for Crossrail |url=https://www.railmagazine.com/news/network/five-more-aventras-ordered-for-crossrail |access-date=10 September 2020 |work=Rail Magazine |publisher=Bauer Consumer Media |place=Peterborough |date=27 March 2018 |archive-date=25 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025080157/https://www.railmagazine.com/news/network/five-more-aventras-ordered-for-crossrail |url-status=live }}
A number of {{brc|315}} units that had been operating with TfL Rail remained in use on Elizabeth line services between Liverpool Street's terminal platforms and Shenfield alongside Class 345 units while the introduction of the new fleet{{snd}}including the extension to nine-car formations{{snd}}was completed.{{Cite web |last=Marius |first=Callum |date=2022-03-14 |title=Some Elizabeth line trains will actually be 42 years old |url=https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/crossrail-trains-londons-brand-new-23382100 |access-date= |website=MyLondon |archive-date=7 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220607155106/https://www.mylondon.news/news/zone-1-news/crossrail-trains-londons-brand-new-23382100 |url-status=live }} The Class 315 units, which had been built for British Rail in 1980–1981, could not be used in the line's core section. The final four were withdrawn from service on 9 December 2022.{{cite magazine |title=Class 315 farewell set saved |magazine= The Railway Magazine |issue= 1462| date=January 2023 |page=73}}
== Future stock ==
Following the opening of the Elizabeth line, TfL experienced high passenger growth on the line.{{Cite web |last=Taylor |first=Guy |date=2024-05-14 |title=Elizabeth Line shines as it carries a record number of passengers |url=https://www.cityam.com/elizabeth-line-shines-as-it-carries-a-record-number-of-passengers/ |access-date=2024-06-14 |website=CityAM |language=en-GB}} TfL noted that that extra capacity would be required when Old Oak Common railway station opens in the 2030s alongside the opening of High Speed 2.{{Cite web |last=Hill |first=Dave |date=2023-03-23 |title=Transport for London to buy more Elizabeth Line trains due to HS2 delays |url=https://www.onlondon.co.uk/transport-for-london-to-buy-more-elizabeth-line-trains-due-to-hs2-delays/ |access-date=2024-06-14 |website=OnLondon}} TfL therefore pushed for funding from the DfT for additional trains.{{Cite news |last=Lancefield |first=Neil |date=2023-11-20 |title=Government urged to fund new Elizabeth line trains |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/business/government-urged-to-fund-new-elizabeth-line-trains-b2450402.html |access-date=2024-06-14 |newspaper=The Independent}} Following this, Alstom (new owners of the original builder Bombardier) was awarded a £370{{nbsp}}million contract in June 2024 to build an additional ten Class 345 trains at its factory in Derby. This would increase the number of trains from 70 to 80.{{Cite web |date=2024-06-14 |title=Alstom: Derby train-maker wins £370m Elizabeth line order |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c29986423x9o |access-date=2024-06-14 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}}
= Electrification and train protection =
The Elizabeth line uses 25{{nbsp}}kV, 50{{nbsp}}Hz AC overhead lines, already in use on the Great Eastern and Great Western Main Lines.
The Heathrow branch started using the European Train Control System (ETCS) in 2020. The Automatic Warning System (AWS) and Train Protection & Warning System (TPWS) are used on the Great Western and Great Eastern Main Lines, with possible later upgrades to ETCS. Communications-based train control (CBTC) is installed in the central section and the Abbey Wood branch.{{cite web|url=http://www.boriswatch.co.uk/2011/06/08/now-its-2019-crossrails-stealth-delay/|title=Now it's 2019: Crossrail's stealth delay|date=8 June 2011|publisher=BorisWatch (blog)|access-date=16 May 2022|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915135553/https://www.boriswatch.co.uk/2011/06/08/now-its-2019-crossrails-stealth-delay/|url-status=live}}{{cite press release |url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/press-releases/crossrail-starts-tender-process-for-signalling-system |title=Crossrail starts tender process for signalling system |publisher=Crossrail |date=14 April 2011 |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=24 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024014109/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/press-releases/crossrail-starts-tender-process-for-signalling-system |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=https://www.londonreconnections.com/2010/crossrail-rolling-stock-tender-is-issued/ |title=Crossrail Rolling Stock Tender is Issued |date=1 December 2010 |publisher=London Reconnections (blog) |access-date=16 May 2022 |archive-date=18 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818030917/https://www.londonreconnections.com/2010/crossrail-rolling-stock-tender-is-issued/ |url-status=live }}
= Depots =
The Elizabeth line has depots in west London at Old Oak Common TMD, in south-east London at Plumstead Depot, and in east London at Ilford EMU Depot.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-36359210|title=Could we finally see the end of overcrowded trains?|work=BBC News|access-date=29 May 2016|archive-date=15 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515140457/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-36359210|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://74f85f59f39b887b696f-ab656259048fb93837ecc0ecbcf0c557.r23.cf3.rackcdn.com/assets/library/document/0/original/0011_r_ne9romfordstation1.pdf|title=Route Window NE9 Romford station and depot (east)|access-date=26 May 2016|publisher=Crossrail|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105022514/http://74f85f59f39b887b696f-ab656259048fb93837ecc0ecbcf0c557.r23.cf3.rackcdn.com/assets/library/document/0/original/0011_r_ne9romfordstation1.pdf|url-status=live}}
Service pattern
=Previous service=
In May 2015, existing commuter services on a section of one of the eastern branches, between {{stn|Liverpool Street}} and Shenfield, were transferred to TfL Rail; this precursor service also took control of Heathrow Connect in May 2018, and some local services on the Paddington to Reading line in December 2019. These services were augmented by a new central section in May 2022, and rebranded as the Elizabeth line. The outer services were connected to the central section in November 2022. Since May 2023, the central section has had up to 24 nine-carriage Class 345 trains per hour in each direction.
Upon opening, the line ran as three physically separate services: between Reading or Heathrow Airport and Paddington in the west; from Paddington via Liverpool Street to Abbey Wood in the centre; and between Liverpool Street and Shenfield in the east. To connect between services, a walk between the separate stations at Paddington or Liverpool Street was required. Operating hours were limited, as well as the service running Monday to Saturday only - allowing for further testing and software updates to take place.{{Cite web |last=Aplin |first=Lucy |date=2022-05-24 |title=Elizabeth Line journey times explained and new route map for Crossrail |url=https://inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyle/travel/elizabeth-line-map-run-on-sundays-journey-times-explained-1647836 |access-date=2023-04-19 |website=inews.co.uk |language=en |archive-date=18 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418203837/https://inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyle/travel/elizabeth-line-map-run-on-sundays-journey-times-explained-1647836 |url-status=live }} When through-running began in November 2022, there were two main service groups, overlapping through the core section: from Reading or Heathrow Airport to Abbey Wood; and from Paddington to Shenfield.
=Current service=
As of December 2024, the off-peak weekday service is as follows:{{cite web|url=https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/elizabeth-line/elizabeth-line-timetables|title=Elizabeth line timetables|publisher=Transport for London|access-date=27 December 2024}}
class="wikitable"
|+ Elizabeth line off-peak weekday service | ||
width=18% | Route | {{abbr|tph|trains per hour}} | Calling at |
---|---|---|
{{stnlnk|Reading}} to {{stnlnk|Abbey Wood}} | align="center" | 2 | {{cslist|{{stnlnk|Twyford}}|{{stnlnk|Maidenhead}}|{{stnlnk|Taplow}}|{{stnlnk|Burnham}}|{{stnlnk|Slough}}|{{stnlnk|Langley}}|{{stnlnk|West Drayton}}|{{stnlnk|Hayes & Harlington}}|{{stnlnk|Southall}}|{{stn|Ealing Broadway}}|Paddington|{{stn|Bond Street}}|{{stn|Tottenham Court Road}}|{{stn|Farringdon}}|{{stn|Liverpool Street}}|{{stn|Whitechapel}}|{{stnlnk|Canary Wharf}}|{{stn|Custom House}}|{{stnlnk|Woolwich}}}} |
Maidenhead to Abbey Wood | align="center" | 2 | {{cslist|Burnham|Slough|Langley|{{stnlnk|Iver}}|West Drayton|Hayes & Harlington|Southall|Ealing Broadway|Paddington|Bond Street|Tottenham Court Road|Farringdon|Liverpool Street|Whitechapel|Canary Wharf|Custom House|Woolwich}} |
{{stnlnk|Heathrow Terminal 4}} to Abbey Wood | align="center" | 4 | {{cslist|{{stnlnk|Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3}}|Hayes & Harlington|Southall|{{stnlnk|Hanwell}}|{{stnlnk|West Ealing}}|Ealing Broadway|{{stnlnk|Acton Main Line}}|Paddington|Bond Street|Tottenham Court Road|Farringdon|Liverpool Street|Whitechapel|Canary Wharf|Custom House|Woolwich}} |
{{stnlnk|Heathrow Terminal 5}} to {{stnlnk|Shenfield}} | align="center" | 2 | {{cslist|Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3|Hayes & Harlington|West Ealing|Ealing Broadway|Paddington|Bond Street|Tottenham Court Road|Farringdon|Liverpool Street|Whitechapel|{{stn|Stratford}}|{{stnlnk|Maryland}}|{{stnlnk|Forest Gate}}|{{stnlnk|Manor Park}}|{{stnlnk|Ilford}}|{{stnlnk|Seven Kings}}|{{stnlnk|Goodmayes}}|{{stnlnk|Chadwell Heath}}|{{stnlnk|Romford}}|{{stnlnk|Gidea Park}}|{{stnlnk|Harold Wood}}|{{stnlnk|Brentwood}}}} |
Paddington to Shenfield | align="center" | 6 | {{cslist|Bond Street|Tottenham Court Road|Farringdon|Liverpool Street|Whitechapel|Stratford|Maryland|Forest Gate|Manor Park|Ilford|Seven Kings|Goodmayes|Chadwell Heath|Romford|Gidea Park|Harold Wood|Brentwood}} |
Some early morning and late night services run into Paddington mainline terminus instead of going through central London. Likewise, some early, peak-direction, and late trains run between Liverpool Street mainline terminus and Gidea Park, bypassing Whitechapel.
=Future service=
= Journey times =
class="wikitable" |
Route
!Pre-Elizabeth line time !Elizabeth line time |
---|
Paddington to Tottenham Court Road
|20 |4 |
Paddington to Canary Wharf
|34 |17 |
Bond Street to Paddington
|15 |3 |
Bond Street to Whitechapel
|24 |10 |
Canary Wharf to Liverpool Street
|21 |6 |
Canary Wharf to Heathrow
|55 |39 |
Whitechapel to Canary Wharf
|13 |3 |
Abbey Wood to Heathrow
|93 |52 |
Operations
=Operator=
The Elizabeth line is currently operated by GTS Rail Operations, a train operating company owned by Go-Ahead Group, Tokyo Metro and Sumitomo Corporation. GTS took over operations from MTR Elizabeth line,{{cite web | url = https://mtrel.co.uk/about-us/ | publisher = MTR Elizabeth line| title = About Us | access-date = 20 December 2024}} the line's first operator, whose contract with TfL expired in May 2025. Following a model similar to that used for the Docklands Light Railway and London Overground, TfL invited tenders for operation of the Elizabeth line. Unlike other National Rail operators under the franchise control of the DfT, TfL sets fares, procures rolling stock and decides service levels. The operator takes only a small element of revenue risk, with TfL taking 90% and the operator 10%.
== History ==
In June 2013, TfL announced that Arriva, MTR Corporation, Keolis / Go-Ahead Group and National Express had been shortlisted to bid for the concession to operate Crossrail, which was under construction.[http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/tfl-announces-shortlist-of-bidders-to-run-crossrail-services TfL announces shortlist of bidders to run Crossrail services] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727231830/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/tfl-announces-shortlist-of-bidders-to-run-crossrail-services|date=27 July 2014}} Crossrail 25 June 2013[http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2013/06/25-crossrail-shortlist-reveals-four-contenders.html Crossrail shortlist reveals four contenders] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808114648/http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/2013/06/25-crossrail-shortlist-reveals-four-contenders.html|date=8 August 2014}} Railnews 25 June 2013 Prior to the opening of the central section, the concessionaire would operate the existing railway services using the TfL Rail brand. In July 2014, TfL awarded the contract to MTR Corporation, for a duration of eight years with an option to extend by an additional two years.[http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/tfl-announces-mtr-to-run-crossrail-services TfL announces MTR to run Crossrail services] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140722073117/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/articles/tfl-announces-mtr-to-run-crossrail-services|date=22 July 2014}} Crossrail 18 July 2014[http://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/Rail-News/mtr-corporation-wins-14bn-contract-to-run-crossrail-services MTR Corporation wins £1.4 billion contract to run Crossrail services] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808084354/http://www.railtechnologymagazine.com/Rail-News/mtr-corporation-wins-14bn-contract-to-run-crossrail-services|date=8 August 2014}} Rail Technology Magazine 18 July 2014
On 16 February 2024, TfL shortlisted four bidders – Arriva, a FirstGroup / Keolis joint venture, MTR Corporation and GTS Rail Operations (a consortium comprising Go-Ahead Group, Tokyo Metro and Sumitomo Corporation) – to operate the line from May 2025.{{Cite web|title=Bidders shortlisted in the process to find the next operator of the Elizabeth line|url=https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2024/february/bidders-shortlisted-in-the-process-to-find-the-next-operator-of-the-elizabeth-line|access-date=2024-05-20|website=Transport for London|language=en}} In November 2024, GTS Rail Operations was chosen to operate the line from May 2025 for seven years with an optional two-year extension.{{Cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jack |date=2024-11-20 |title=Tokyo Metro wins contract to operate London's Elizabeth line |url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/nov/20/tokyo-metro-wins-contract-operate-london-elizabeth-line |access-date=2024-11-20 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}{{cite web | last=Warren | first=Jess | title=Elizabeth line: Operator MTR loses bid to renew its contract | website=BBC News| date=19 November 2024 | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyvp207n4go | access-date=22 November 2024}}New operator announced for Elizabeth Line Rail Express issue 344 January 2025 page 10
=Ticketing=
Ticketing is integrated with the other London transport systems, but Oyster pay as you go is not accepted on the western section between West Drayton (the limit of London fare zone 6) and Reading, with only contactless cards valid there. The concessionary travel Freedom Pass is valid for the whole length of the route, including stations outside London.{{cite web |title=Elizabeth Line |url=https://www.londontravelwatch.org.uk/useful-information/elizabeth-line |website=London TravelWatch |access-date=5 February 2023 |archive-date=5 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230205074254/https://www.londontravelwatch.org.uk/useful-information/elizabeth-line/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web | url = https://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/services/freedom-pass/using-pass/crossrail-elizabeth-line | title = Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the Elizabeth line has opened today Tuesday 24 May 2022 | date = 24 May 2022 | publisher = London Councils | access-date = 5 February 2023 | archive-date = 5 February 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230205075551/https://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/services/freedom-pass/using-pass/crossrail-elizabeth-line | url-status = live }} The Elizabeth line is integrated with the London Underground, the wider TfL network and the National Rail networks; it is also included on the standard Tube map.{{cite web | last=Thackray | first=Lucy | title=New TFL tube map released featuring Elizabeth Line | website=The Independent | date=24 May 2022 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/new-tube-map-with-elizabeth-line-b2086000.html | access-date=24 May 2022 | archive-date=26 May 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526172927/https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/new-tube-map-with-elizabeth-line-b2086000.html | url-status=live }}
Journeys to or from Heathrow Airport are priced at a premium due to using the rail tunnel between the airport and Hayes & Harlington. That stretch of line is not part of the Network Rail system but owned by Heathrow Airport Holdings, who charge TfL an additional fee for each train that uses it. Heathrow is nevertheless included within the Travelcard scheme and daily/weekly fare capping as fare zone 6 stations.{{Citation|url=https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2018/march/mayor-of-london-announces-tfl-fares-will-apply-to-elizabeth-line|title=Mayor of London announces TfL fares will apply to Elizabeth line|date=6 March 2018|access-date=19 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106122337/https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/media/press-releases/2018/march/mayor-of-london-announces-tfl-fares-will-apply-to-elizabeth-line|archive-date=6 November 2018|url-status=dead}}
= Passenger numbers =
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Elizabeth line was predicted to carry over 200{{nbsp}}million passengers annually immediately after opening;{{cite web |url=http://content.tfl.gov.uk/tfl-business-plan-2019.pdf |title=Transport for London Business Plan |date=December 2019 |page=136 |publisher=Transport for London |access-date=21 January 2020 |archive-date=15 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515141650/https://content.tfl.gov.uk/tfl-business-plan-2019.pdf |url-status=live }} this was expected to relieve pressure on London Underground's lines, especially the Central line.{{cite web|url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/crossrail-in-numbers|title=Crossrail in numbers|publisher=Crossrail|date=March 2016|access-date=16 May 2022|archive-date=30 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180730181725/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/news/crossrail-in-numbers|url-status=dead}} {{stn|Farringdon}} is expected to become one of the busiest stations in the UK, due to it being the key interchange station with Thameslink services.{{cite web|url=http://www.crossrail.co.uk/route/stations/farringdon/|title=Farringdon station|publisher=Crossrail|date=January 2017|access-date=16 May 2022|archive-date=30 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110430151246/http://www.crossrail.co.uk/route/stations/farringdon/|url-status=dead}} In a business plan for the line published in January 2020, TfL predicted total annual revenues from the line of nearly £500{{nbsp}}million per year in 2022/23 (its first full year of operation) and over £1{{nbsp}}billion per year in 2024/25. By the time the line opened, TfL had reduced their passenger forecasts because passenger travelling habits changed during the pandemic; the estimate was between 130 and 170{{nbsp}}million passengers by 2026.{{cite news |last1=Hellen |first1=Nicholas |title=TfL cuts passenger forecasts for £19 billion Elizabeth Line after pandemic hit |url=https://www.thetimes.com/article/tfl-cuts-passenger-forecasts-for-19-billion-elizabeth-line-after-pandemic-hit-8mzhqbj73 | url-access = subscription | access-date = 23 May 2023 |work=The Times |date=22 May 2022 |archive-date=29 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220529040713/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/tfl-cuts-passenger-forecasts-for-19-billion-elizabeth-line-after-pandemic-hit-8mzhqbj73 |url-status=live }} However, the Elizabeth line carried 62.2{{nbsp}}million passengers in the last quarter of 2022 alone. That was one-sixth of the UK's total rail journeys, and double the number the line carried during the same period one year earlier.{{Cite news |last=Lydall |first=Ross |date=2023-03-16 |title=Elizabeth line: passenger numbers soar by 41 per cent in three months |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/passengers-elizabeth-line-soar-41-per-cent-tfl-overcrowding-b1067730.html |access-date=2023-03-17 |website=Evening Standard |language=en |archive-date=17 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230317014236/https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/passengers-elizabeth-line-soar-41-per-cent-tfl-overcrowding-b1067730.html |url-status=live }} TFL later stated the line had carried over 150{{nbsp}}million passengers in its first year of operation.{{Cite web |date=2023-05-30 |title=Happy first birthday to London's Elizabeth Line |url=https://www.railtech.com/all/2023/05/30/happy-first-birthday-to-londons-elizabeth-line/ |access-date=2023-06-24 |website=RailTech.com |language=en-GB |archive-date=24 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230624205718/https://www.railtech.com/all/2023/05/30/happy-first-birthday-to-londons-elizabeth-line/ |url-status=live }} By its second anniversary, more than 350{{nbsp}}million trips had been made on the line, and it carried a seventh of all rail trips in the UK.{{Cite web |last=Lydall |first=Ross |date=2024-05-24 |title=Elizabeth line hits 350million passengers milestone as it marks 2nd birthday |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/transport/elizabeth-line-tfl-travel-passengers-delays-crossrail-b1159981.html |access-date=2024-05-26 |website=Evening Standard |language=en}}
In the fiscal year April 2023 to March 2024, the line carried 220{{nbsp}}million passengers.
class="wikitable"
|+Number of passengers carried !Fiscal Year !Passengers !Source |
2022/23
|143 |
2023/24
|220 |
Total
|363 |
Further proposals
{{Main|Crossrail#Further proposals}}
A new station has been proposed to serve London City Airport, and extensions have been put forward to Ebbsfleet in the south east, Milton Keynes in the north west, Staines in the south west, and Southend Airport in the east.
TfL has introduced high-speed 4G and 5G mobile coverage in the first tunnelled section of the Elizabeth line between Liverpool Street and Paddington. This initiative, part of a broader plan to extend coverage across the entire Tube and London Overground network, aims to improve connectivity.
{{cite news|title=First Elizabeth line tunnels see 4G and 5G coverage |date=3 July 2024 |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9x8lw5lwdjo |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240703082405/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9x8lw5lwdjo |archive-date=3 July 2024 |access-date=3 July 2024}}
Honours and awards
In 2024, the Elizabeth line won the RIBA London Building of the Year award,{{cite journal |last1=Regional Awards Jury |title=The Elizabeth Line, London |journal=The RIBA Journal |date=10 May 2024 |url=https://www.ribaj.com/buildings/riba-awards-2024-london-east-elizabeth-line-grimshaw-maynard-equation-atkins-transport-islington |access-date=31 July 2024 |language=en}} and won the Stirling Prize for the same year.{{cite news |last=Heathcote |first=Edwin |title=Elizabeth Line wins UK's Stirling Prize |url=https://www.ft.com/content/0fd144d0-5d99-4b42-9671-1a45298a5ea6 |access-date=17 October 2024 |work=Financial Times |date=16 October 2024}} Muyiwa Oki, RIBA president and chair of judges, said the Elizabeth line was "a triumph in architect-led collaboration" that transformed "the typical commuter chaos . . . into an effortless experience".
See also
- Crossrail 2 – second proposed Crossrail route providing a new north–south rail link across Greater London
- Thameslink - north–south route through London connecting locations across south east England
- The Fifteen Billion Pound Railway, a documentary about the Elizabeth line's construction and commissioning
- Transport in London
- Réseau Express Régional
References
{{Reflist}}
Bibliography
- {{Cite web |ref=RUS2011|url=https://cdn.prgloo.com/media/download/d16a1941ea3a40c2bac279049051e1cf |publisher=Network Rail |title=London & South East RUS (final) |page=9 |date=28 July 2011|access-date=28 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171128171405/https://cdn.prgloo.com/media/download/d16a1941ea3a40c2bac279049051e1cf|archive-date=28 November 2017|url-status=live}}
- {{Cite web |url=http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2008/18/contents |title=Crossrail Act 2008 |publisher=The National Archives}}
- {{Cite web |url=http://billdocuments.crossrail.co.uk |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090213205419/http://billdocuments.crossrail.co.uk/ |archive-date=13 February 2009 |title=Crossrail Bill supporting documents}}
- {{Cite news |title=Crossrail: A rare look deep under London |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-21196455 |format=video |publisher=BBC News |date=25 January 2013 |access-date=26 January 2013}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- {{Official website}}
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