Testing underway on new Sub Surface line signalling system

Testing has begun on the new Sub Surface (SSR) Lines signalling system at the centre of the biggest metro resignalling project in the world.

With signalling systems on the SSR dating back to the 1940s still in use, the project will allow London Underground to run more trains on the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines.

Since December both London Underground and Bombardier engineers have been carrying out initial testing of the onboard and trackside equipment.

Following these early tests, formal trials will start on the first S Stock train fitted with Automatic Train Control (ATC).

The re-signalling programme will be completed in 2018.

David Waboso, London Underground’s capital programmes director, said: “Over the last few years LU has been working with and learning from other metros around the world in order to identify proven ways to upgrade the Tube whilst minimising disruption.

“Carrying out testing at our dedicated 5 km Old Dalby track for the next 18 months will help minimise disruption to our customers by reducing the need for closures, and proving reliability and performance levels before the system is installed.

“Testing commenced in December 2012 and is set to continue through to 2014, when the system will then start being installed across the SSR network.”