Crossrail bosses have confirmed the Elizabeth Line won’t fully open until Autumn 2019.
Original plans were for the line to open in December but further testing will be carried out before it begins to run.
The Elizabeth Line is already running between Shenfield and Liverpool Street as well as between Paddington and Hayes & Harlington.
The central part will now not open until next year.
Simon Wright, Crossrail Chief Executive said: “The Elizabeth line is one of the most complex and challenging infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the UK and is now in its final stages.
“We have made huge progress with the delivery of this incredible project but we need further time to complete the testing of the new railway.
“We are working around the clock with our supply chain and Transport for London to complete and commission the Elizabeth line.”
Local MPs have already expressed their disappointment at the news of the delay.
Ilford South’s MP Mike Gapes Tweeted: “I am very disappointed to see the announcement that the opening of the Crossrail line is being delayed from December until Autumn next year. This is a great project which is vital to the prosperity and future of London and the whole country.”
When the central section of the Elizabeth line opens in autumn 2019, the railway will initially operate as three separate services between Paddington (Elizabeth line station) to Abbey Wood via central London, Paddington (mainline station) to Heathrow (Terminals 2, 3 and 4) and Liverpool Street to Shenfield.
Tags: Crossrail
