On Thu, 16 Mar 2006 12:05:51 +0000, Dave Arquati wrote:

It's a shame the station work has started so late - I would have very
much liked to use it a couple of days ago, when instead I had to hurry
down to Olympia and cram myself on with everyone else there... (also
evidence of the very high demand for these inner orbital lines, which I
know some posters doubted a while ago!).

I've had cause to use some of the NLL recently and have been surprised
how busy it is. Even the dear old GOBLIN carries decent loads despite
the slow speed and poor frequency.

I happened to see one of Southern's trains at West Brompton (heading
south) mid afternoon and it was well loaded too. Similar comments apply
to one I saw in the evening peak waiting to depart from Watford. I was
surprised that it was as busy as it looked - especially as the DfT are
looking to reduce or curtail the Watford - Brighton service if my memory
serves.

I look forward to a TfL-managed WLL with through services to the NLL and
a new station at the Bush!

Well yes but I fear there are going to be huge issues to deal with -
most notably the willingness of Network Rail to co-operate at a price
that is affordable. The reliance placed on these lines for the Olympics
(and London's transport needs) gives a number of parties massive
leverage against TfL. You can detect where the issues may arise in this
very recent London Assembly report

http://www.london.gov.uk/assembly/re...ondon-line.pdf

--
Paul C


Admits to working for London Underground!