What improvements and works are planned for the tracks below the Barbican Estate in the next 5 years and - when are the main specific aspects of these improvements planned to be completed? - what consideration will be given to ensuring that these improvements will provide a reduction of the current severe noise pollution for residents? In what precise ways will this be achieved, for example by special repairs, removal of crossings, points or joints or by using new rails, track bed and fixings which reduce noise and vibration and with what planned effects?

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TfL Ref: 0647-1819

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 11 June 2018 asking for information about rail track improvements planned for below the Barbican.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require.  You asked:

• What improvements and works are planned for the tracks below the Barbican Estate in the next 5 years and

• When are the main specific aspects of these improvements planned to be completed?

   

• What consideration will be given to ensuring that these improvements will provide a reduction of the current severe noise pollution for residents? In what precise ways will this be achieved, for example by special repairs, removal of crossings, points or joints or by using new rails, track bed and fixings which reduce noise and vibration and with what planned effects?

Our Track Programme division are undertaking  Ballasted Track Renewal (BTR) which is replacement of the rails, sleepers and ballast between Barbican and Moorgate on the inner road (inside road of the Circle line) and is the westbound direction in this location in week 25 ( 15^th September 2018).

There is also a plan (subject to review) to undertake works in the Farringdon area (Old Tunnels between Farringdon and Moorgate) on behalf of 4LM September 2018 – April 2019 for the purpose of stabling trains in central London.

With regards to noise, we do not undertake work to mitigate this unless there is a specific issue which is resolvable through a spot intervention such as PV, grouting sleepers, removing joints, grinding or re-railing.

Also, we do not have a 5 renewal year plan for this area beyond those sites previously mentioned but all interventions are undertaken with the assumption that they may reduce noise through an improvement in track quality.

We understand the importance of minimising noise levels on the Tube and we are determined to do more to achieve this. We have carried out a huge programme of work and spent over £200million replacing and grinding over 500km of track. We are also actively exploring other options to reduce noise levels even further such as installing noise barriers and noise dampening pads as well as ensuring new rail infrastructure incorporates noise reduction technology.

If this is not the information you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.

Yours sincerely

Sara Thomas

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London

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