Phew! Farringdon's still open
(but you may want to use City Thameslink instead)
Farringdon station is being transformed, chiefly so it can take 50% longer Thameslink route trains giving you more chance of a seat (see what your new station will look like). And that means three years of building work that could aggravate your journey. Hoardings have already gone up on the platforms.
These are the points to remember:
- The station stays open and First Capital Connect trains continue to serve Farringdon (apart from when there are planned closures of the cross-London route and Tube services via Farringdon).
- However, there will be narrower platforms, your walking route around the station may change and there will be some congestion on parts of the platforms and exits.
- You may need to allow extra time or maybe even use a different nearby station.
- The Thameslink route Moorgate branch closes in March next year.
The first job is to make it easier to get in and around the station and to reach the Tube. To do this, Network Rail is putting in a wider platform footbridge and an extra entrance and exit to Turnmill Street. The footbridge will be finished in time for the closure of the Moorgate branch to First Capital Connect Thameslink route services. That's when Farringdon Station suddenly gets a whole lot busier. Here's what this first piece of work will mean to you...
In detail, what’s happening?
Narrower platforms
Worksite hoardings are taking up space on the platforms making them busier. First Capital Connect has brought in more staff to help direct people and we're asking you to not stand in front of the hoardings if possible as this stops others from getting by.
Please help by using the full length of the platform and listen to any instructions given by station staff.
TIP: If coming in from the north, it will be quicker to interchange or exit if you are in the front four carriages.
Walkway route changes
You’ll still be able to reach platforms 1, 2, 3 and 4 but the way you get there will change as work progresses.
Routes will be clearly signposted and extra staff will be on hand to help.
Cross-London services
Don’t forget the line between St Pancras International and Blackfriars will be closed on weekday late evenings and over most weekends in 2009. Read about it here.
Get away from it all
We don’t know for sure just how much the building work will slow you down but you can avoid it altogether by using other First Capital Connect stations. City Thameslink is the nearest station, only a short half-mile walk away. Others are St Pancras International, Blackfriars, Barbican and Moorgate (although remember – First Capital Connect trains will only call at Barbican and Moorgate until March 2009).
View the First Capital Connect network map.
