Network Rail is undertaking major digital signalling upgrades as part of its GBP 1.4 billion East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP), impacting Thameslink and Great Northern services. No trains will run between London King’s Cross and Peterborough or Royston, nor between Moorgate and Stevenage via Hertford North. Rail replacement buses will operate on affected routes.
The works are a critical step in the transition to digital in-cab signalling, aiming to deliver a more reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly railway. The weekend activity will include:
- High-speed digital signalling testing between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin
- Preparatory signalling works between Biggleswade and Peterborough
- Removal of traditional signals between Moorgate and Finsbury Park
The testing on the Welwyn Garden City to Hitchin section forms part of preparations for digital signalling to go live in early 2026. Meanwhile, the removal of signals between Moorgate and Finsbury Park marks a key milestone as this section becomes Britain’s first fully ‘no signals’ commuter route.
“This testing is another step towards in-cab signalling on the East Coast Main Line. We thank passengers for their patience as we carry out these essential upgrades,” Ricky Barsby, Network Rail’s Head of Access Integration for ECDP, said.
Jenny Saunders, Customer Service Director for Thameslink and Great Northern, added: “This work brings us closer to a digitally signalled East Coast route and more reliable journeys. I apologise for the inconvenience and urge customers to check before they travel.”
During the closure, engineers will also carry out track switch renewals near Hornsey and Huntingdon, as well as drainage work near Fletton.
ECDP upgrades: Travel information
No trains will run between:
- London and Peterborough
- London and Royston
- Moorgate and Stevenage (via Hertford North)
Replacement buses will operate between:
- Peterborough and Bedford via St Neots
- Peterborough and Hitchin
- Royston and Hitchin
- Stevenage and Hertford North
- Hertford North and Alexandra Palace
- Stevenage and St Albans City via Welwyn Garden City
- Stevenage and Luton Airport Parkway via Hitchin
- Alexandra Palace and Welwyn Garden City
- Cockfosters and Potters Bar via Hadley Wood
Trains will continue to run between Royston and Cambridge/Ely/King’s Lynn.
Tickets will be accepted on:
- Thameslink services between Bedford and London
- Greater Anglia services between Cambridge North/Hertford East and London Liverpool Street
Passengers are also advised to avoid travelling via Sheffield, Derby, or Chesterfield on East Midlands Railway services due to expected high demand.
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