ENHANCING PERFORMANCE ON THE MILDMAY LINE

As many of you will know, the Mildmay line has faced increasing performance challenges due to the growing passenger and freight traffic. As the line approaches its technical capacity, Stratford has become critical for ensuring timely and efficient train operations. With up to 21 arrivals and departures per hour using just two platforms, even minor delays can cascade into significant disruptions.

A new initiative, the Stratford Pulse Trial, was launched on Monday, 12 August, to address these challenges. The trial involves deploying three additional agency staff on platforms 1, 2, 10A, and 11 at Stratford. These staff members have iPads to log real-time data on train arrivals and departures. Their presence is intended to support drivers during critical operations and assist in managing passenger flow to minimise delays.

Speaking at the launch, Georgina Crowther, route performance manager, said: "We had an engaging morning with the 16 agency staff who we will be working closely with to improve a vital part of our operations. The team understands the need for this and is committed to working with us over the next two months. If you are passing through Stratford, please do come and meet the team to see how they are getting on."

The trial will run for two months, with a review scheduled after three weeks to assess the impact and determine if adjustments are needed. The goal is to enhance the efficiency of train turnarounds, improve punctuality, and provide a smoother experience for passengers.

Key responsibilities of the agency staff include:
- Assisting drivers with timely departure preparations.
- Helping passengers board quickly.
- Deterring behaviours that could cause delays, such as holding doors.

The data collected during the trial will be crucial for identifying patterns in delays and implementing long-term improvements.

This initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between operational teams and the value of real-time data in optimising performance on one of London's busiest rail lines. The Stratford Pulse Trial represents a proactive step toward addressing the performance challenges on the Mildmay line and ensuring that the service meets the high expectations of customers and stakeholders alike.