CHINGFORD BLOCKADE - EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Brace yourselves for the Chingford Blockade! For 16 days, from Saturday, 20 July to Sunday, 4 August, a massive project is taking place that will transform our rail network. This essential overhaul will replace a 150-year-old bridge near Hackney Downs Park, leading to significant service changes. Don’t worry—we’ve got all the details. Here are four things you need to know to stay on track:

1. Bridge replacement

From 20 July to 4 August, Network Rail is undertaking the monumental task of replacing the bridge near Hackney Downs Park. This bridge, carrying the junction of Downs Park Road and Bodney Road, is in poor condition and needs a complete overhaul. The plan is to demolish the old structure and start building the new one, ensuring enhanced safety and reliability for the future.

2. Service suspension

During this period, there will be no London Overground services between Chingford and Hackney Downs stations. This means no trains to or from Clapton, St James Street, Walthamstow Central, Wood Street, Highams Park, and Chingford. We understand this will impact many of our passengers, but it’s a necessary step for long-term improvements.

3. Alternative travel options

Victoria Line: The London Underground Victoria line from Walthamstow Central will be operating as usual, including the Night Tube on Fridays and Saturdays.
Local Buses: Local bus services will be running to cover the affected route, helping passengers get where they need to go.
Rail replacement buses: To help customers get around, rail replacement buses will run between Chingford and Hackney Downs every 20 minutes calling at all stations.
Overground Services: Passengers travelling between Liverpool Street and Hackney Downs/Bethnal Green can use the Overground services to and from Enfield Town and Cheshunt. However, timetables may change, so it’s crucial to check before travelling.

4. Has this been done before?

Yes, it was only this time last year that ARL experienced a blockade. That time, it affected passengers between Watford and Euston. Upgrade works began on 23 July 2023 and were completed on 25 August 2023.