Track repairs to hit Tram services next week

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

Huge disruption is set to hit tram services in Croydon from next week while repair work takes place on parts of the track. ransport for London (TfL) will be replacing the track between Wimbledon Therapia Lane meaning no trams will run between the two stations from August 22-31.

TfL will replace 700 metres of track and said the maintenance is “vital” for reliability and smooth services.

While trams between the two stations are cancelled a replacement bus service will run from Wimbledon to Waddon Marsh, calling at Morden Road, Belgrave Walk then all stops via Therapia Lane.

Passengers have been warned that journey times will be “considerably longer” and are advised to find an alternative route.

During the 10 days, trams will continue to run from Therapia Lane to Croydon town centre, Beckham Junction and Elmers End and the West Croydon to New Addington line will operate as normal.

Mark Davis, TfL’s general manager for London Trams, said: “I would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while this work takes place.

“This vital maintenance will help improve reliability and ride quality for our customers. Please plan ahead and allow plenty of time for your journey.”

TfL said that work will be taking place 24 hours a day to minimise disruption. During the repairs, other work will take place to try and avoid future closures.

This includes platform painting and paving, drainage works, fencing repairs and vegetation removal.

Due to London-wide transport strikes, trams will also be running a reduced service tomorrow and Saturday.

It is due to a dispute over pensions pay and conditions.

Andy Lord, TfL’s chief operating officer, said: “I would like to apologise to our customers for the strike action being carried out by RMT and Unite, which will have a significant impact on the city’s transport network.”

Pictured top. A tram. Picture LDRS