Christmas Closure Followed by January and February Weekend Works on Mildmay Line

Network Rail is set to continue a major track replacement programme on the London Overground Mildmay line after an 11-day partial closure over the Christmas period. The work will extend into January and February, taking place over three weekends to complete essential upgrades.

Engineers have already focused on the section between Brondesbury Park and Willesden Junction, replacing 10 sets of points—the movable sections of track that allow trains to switch lines. The old points, previously supported by deteriorating timber sleepers, have been upgraded with concrete sleepers over freshly laid ballast. Straight sections of track have also been renewed, with drainage channels and pits improved to reduce the risk of flooding.

Simon Milburn, infrastructure director for Network Rail Anglia, said:

“We’re sorry for the extended closure at Christmas and the additional weekends in the new year, but this is a big job that will make a real positive impact for passengers in the long-term. The busy Mildmay line is shared with regular heavy freight trains, which means there’s more stress and strain on the track than on other parts of the network. We are installing new track that is built to last for decades to come.”

After the new track settles, engineers will return over three weekends in January and February to complete the installation with specialist machinery. A separate team will also replace an additional 1.5km of worn straight track to ensure reliability across the line.

Passengers should be aware of service disruptions during these periods. Over Christmas, from 25 December to 4 January, train services will be suspended on several sections, with replacement buses and shuttle services operating. On 25 December, there will be no trains at all, while Boxing Day sees a limited shuttle between Shepherd’s Bush and Clapham Junction.

Further closures will occur on 10-11 January, 31 January-1 February, and 14-15 February. During these weekends, alternative train and bus services will operate along parts of the line, with special trains running between Willesden Junction and Stratford and shuttle trains between Shepherd’s Bush and Clapham Junction. Passengers are advised to plan their journeys in advance via the TfL website.

Image: Network Rail