I would like to see info regarding the Aldwych branch for my own interests
Request ID: FOI-1619-2223 Date published: 24 October 2022
You asked
Dear Transport for London
About 7 months ago you scrapped an ex 1972 ex Northern line train that, was stationed at Aldwych.
I would like to know if the track is still in use and if a 1973 stock Piccadilly line train we be used for filming and maintenance of the track like at Charing Cross.
I would also like to know about future plans for the branch due to the Holborn Station Upgrade
Thank you
Yours sincerely
We answered
TfL Refs: FOI-1619-2223 and FOI-1620-2223
Thank you for your requests received by Transport for London (TfL) on 6th and 9th October 2022 asking for information about the Aldwych branch of the Piccadilly line and the Charing Cross branch of the Jubilee line. Your requests have been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.
I can confirm that we hold the information you require. Your questions are answered in turn below:
Question 1:About 7 months ago you scrapped an ex 1972 ex Northern line train that, was stationed at Aldwych. I would like to know if the track is still in use and if a 1973 stock Piccadilly line train we be used for filming and maintenance of the track like at Charing Cross?
Answer: The track and connections to the Piccadilly line at Holborn remain in situ and connected, and the track is maintained to relevant standards. The branch remains available for ad hoc filming work as required. There are no plans to use 1973 Tube Stock on the Aldwych branch as these trains are fully engaged in regular timetabled service delivery on the Piccadilly line.
Question 2: I would also like to know about future plans for the branch due to the Holborn Station Upgrade.
Answer: The planned station capacity upgrade for Holborn is currently unfunded and hence is not expected to proceed in the short to medium term. The design proposal for the Holborn station upgrade currently includes the conversion of the disused Aldwych branch platforms to create a new lower level concourse and circulating area. The station upgrade scheme is also planned to include additional equipment room space which will involve the permanent removal of the former Aldwych branch track connections to the Piccadilly line.
Question 3: I would like to find out about the train movements and maintenance at Charing Cross Jubilee line. How often do trains use Charing Cross station or sidings?
Answer: The station platforms are not operational. However, the sidings are used from time to time for operational purposes such as failures recovery, just as we do for any other sidings. In addition we carry out training at Charing Cross sidings, as well as using it for filming and other commercial activities.
Question 4: How often does Maintenance occur on the tracks etc.
Answer: Track inspection and maintenance activities continue to be undertaken frequently as per the relevant safety critical Standards. The Charing Cross sidings are maintained to the same level as the rest of the Jubilee Line track as it is all operational. There are no deviations from this.
Question 5: How often are the escalators switched on and used?
Answer: Only one escalator on the disused side of the station is kept in an operational condition, and it is only operated when there is a need to do so - i.e. for filming / commercial purposes or training.
Question: 6 Finally what are the future plans for the station. Will it still be used for filming or are there any future developments?
Answer: Charing Cross is still used for filming.at the non-operational section of the station. It is also used for many other activities including emergency service training as well as the London Transport Museum’s Hidden London tours.
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,
David Wells FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
