Transport for London (TfL) has set out plans to take over the Great Northern line between Moorgate and Hertford North and Welwyn Garden City, raising the prospect of faster and more reliable journeys for thousands of passengers.
The change would affect stations including Alexandra Palace, Potters Bar and Enfield Chase, improving links between north London, the capital, and Hertfordshire.
Sir Sadiq Khan told My London: “I’m lobbying the government for the devolution of the Great Northern line, which will really help in Crews Hill and Enfield.”
READ MORE:
Two funding options are being considered.
A £239 million investment would double off-peak services from two to four trains per hour.
A larger £310 million plan would further boost frequency, offering up to eight trains per hour during peak times and six off-peak.
The plans are currently under review by the Department for Transport (DfT) before a full business case is submitted.
Elly Baker, chair of the Greater London Authority transport committee, said: “The committee believes now is the time for further devolution of rail in London.
“National Rail lines play an important role in London’s transport mix, but these services are currently under-performing and, as a result, are under-delivering for Londoners.
“Improving the reliability of stations and services, fare integration and customer information could all deliver for London – and Londoners.
“Like the devolution of services that has come before, we believe devolution of Great Northern inner services to TfL could enable TfL to make those improvements to these services. We also understand TfL plans to increase the frequency of services on these lines, which could unlock housing delivery and support economic activity in both London and Hertfordshire.”
Stations that could join the London Overground network include Cuffley, Gordon Hill, Hadley Wood and Winchmore Hill.
TfL already owns Highbury and Islington, Old Street, and Moorgate, which would gain new London Overground platforms as part of the scheme.
The DfT confirmed that discussions with TfL are ongoing but said timelines for the proposed takeover have not yet been finalised.
