Passengers travelling on London’s tram network are being warned to prepare for almost two weeks of disruption as major engineering works take place during October half-term.
Transport for London (TfL) will carry out essential track renewals and infrastructure upgrades on the London Trams network from Saturday, October 24, to Thursday, November 5, affecting services east of East Croydon.
Full tram service will resume on Friday, November 6.
What’s happening
The works will affect services east of East Croydon. During the closure, no trams will operate between East Croydon and Beckenham Junction, Elmers End, or New Addington.
The planned works include renewing the Kent Gate Way road crossing east of Gravel Hill, replacing around 1,000 metres of track and ballast between Arena and Elmers End, and carrying out improvement works at Sandilands tunnel.
Mark Davis, TfL’s general manager for London Trams, said: “We’re carrying out most of these works during the October half-term period when demand is lower to minimise disruption as much as possible.”
“The programme includes renewing track, ballast and other key infrastructure across the network, helping to keep the tramway safe, reliable and fit for the future.”
“We know these works will affect some journeys, and we’d like to thank customers for their patience.”
“Replacement buses will be in place, and we encourage customers to plan ahead using the TfL Go app or our online journey planner before travelling.”
Replacement buses
Replacement bus services will run between East Croydon and Beckenham Junction via Elmers End, and between East Croydon and New Addington.
However, replacement buses will not serve Elmers End on Sunday. All tram stops will be served by the replacement buses except Lebanon Road and Sandilands.
Passengers are advised to check before travelling and allow extra time for journeys.
Why half-term
The timing is deliberate. October half-term sees lower demand on the tram network, as schools are closed and many commuters take time off.
By scheduling major works during this quieter period, TfL aims to minimise the impact on regular passengers.
It’s a common strategy across London’s transport network. Major engineering works are often planned for school holidays, bank holidays and weekends when fewer people are travelling.
The bigger picture
London Trams — the network formerly known as Tramlink — serves south London, connecting Croydon with Beckenham, Elmers End, New Addington and Wimbledon.
It’s a vital link for communities in the area, carrying millions of passengers each year. But like all rail infrastructure, it needs regular maintenance to stay safe and reliable.
Track renewal is essential work. Worn track can cause delays, increase noise and, in the worst case, pose safety risks. Replacing 1,000 metres of track is a significant undertaking.
The works at Sandilands tunnel are also notable. The tunnel has been the site of previous safety concerns, and ongoing investment in the infrastructure is crucial.
Plan ahead
If you use the tram network east of East Croydon, plan ahead. Check the TfL Go app or the online journey planner before travelling. Allow extra time — replacement buses are slower than trams and can be affected by road traffic.
The works run from October 24 to November 5. That’s almost two weeks, covering the half-term holiday and the first few days of November.
Full service resumes on Friday, November 6 — just in time for the weekend.
For regular commuters, the disruption will be frustrating. But the alternative — letting the infrastructure deteriorate — would be worse. These works are an investment in keeping the trams running safely for years to come.
London Streets has been covering Thameslink delays at St Pancras and European sleeper trains from London.
