Charing Cross and Waterloo East reopen after three-week track upgrade
Network Rail replaced 1.8 km of track and 16 sets of switches to reduce delays on the Southeastern network
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Charing Cross and Waterloo East stations reopened to passengers on 17 August, following a three-week closure for engineering works. The stations, which serve the Southeastern network, had been shut since 26 July to allow Network Rail to replace ageing track and switches.
The closure enabled the installation of 1.8 km of new track and 16 sets of switches and crossings between the two stations. Network Rail said the existing equipment had been in use for 36 years and had contributed to over 21,000 minutes of delays for passengers.
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Works included bridge repairs and drainage upgrades
The project also involved structural repairs to Hungerford Bridge, which carries the railway over the Thames and includes two pedestrian footbridges. At Charing Cross, the ends of platforms nearest the bridge were rebuilt with new foundations.
Waterloo East received upgrades to its track drainage to improve ride quality and maintain line speed. Network Rail said the improvements were necessary to reduce disruptions caused by faults on the route.
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Final closure planned for 23 August
While services resumed on 17 August, a further closure is scheduled for 23 August. Network Rail said this would allow engineers to conduct final checks to ensure the works were completed successfully.
The BBC reported that the closures affected passengers travelling on the Southeastern network, with services unable to call at the two stations during the works. Network Rail did not specify how many passengers were affected by the delays prior to the upgrade.
Questions this report answers
+Why were Charing Cross and Waterloo East stations closed?
The stations were closed from 26 July to 16 August for engineering works, including the replacement of 1.8 km of track and 16 sets of switches. Network Rail said the upgrades were needed to reduce over 21,000 minutes of delays caused by faults on the line.
+When will the stations fully reopen after the works?
The stations reopened on 17 August, but a further closure is planned for 23 August. Network Rail said this would allow engineers to conduct final checks before full service resumes.
+What other work was done during the closure?
The project included structural repairs to Hungerford Bridge and upgrades to track drainage at Waterloo East. Platform ends at Charing Cross were also rebuilt with new foundations to improve stability.
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