Network Rail has announced plans to make reliability upgrades to the Hertford Loop and Northern City Lines.

From Sunday, 30 July, engineers will begin work to install overhead line equipment as well as renewing rail signals on the Hertford Loop Line. Replacement buses will carry passengers while the works are carried out, with the line expected to reopen the following day.

Meanwhile, works will also commence on Saturday 05 August to carry out substantial upgrades to the tunnels between Moorgate and Finsbury Park. The upgrades aim to reduce the noise and vibrations caused by trains passing through the area.

The project will also involve the renewal of overhead line equipment between Alexandra Palace and Stevenage, with the aim of making the equipment more weather resistant. Engineers will also prepare the line for digital signalling as part of the East Coast Digital Programme.


Works are expected to last one day and completed on 06 August. Replacement bus services will carry passengers for the duration of the works.

Commenting on the project, Jason Parrish, Head of Planning for Network Rail's East Coast Route, said: "These upgrades to both the Hertford Loop line and Northern City Line will ultimately improve reliability for passengers and lead to smoother journeys.

"I'm pleased that we are also making significant improvements to tunnels between Moorgate and Finsbury Park, as this will help to reduce noise and vibrations from trains which will greatly benefit people living near the railway.

"There will be changes to services, so I'd like to thank passengers for their patience whilst we complete this important work. Our best advice for anyone who is planning to travel is to check National Rail Enquiries or their train operator's website before setting off."

Reflecting on the potential disruption caused by the works, Jenny Saunders, Customer Service Director for Govia Thameslink Railway, who operate Great Northern trains, said: "Network Rail are modernising the infrastructure to make journeys more reliable and comfortable for our passengers on the Hertford Loop and in and out of Moorgate.

"Buses will be running instead of trains between Alexandra Palace and Stevenage via Hertford North on all three dates, and there'll be no Great Northern service between Finsbury Park and Moorgate on the 5 and 6 of August, so please allow plenty of extra time and check your route and journey times before you travel."