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TfL Rail

TfL Rail was a service operated under the authority of (TfL), functioning as the transitional brand for what became the , and provided frequent train services on two branches of the network from 2015 to 2022. The service commenced operations on 31 May 2015 with electric trains running on the eastern branch between in and Shenfield in , covering approximately 20 miles (32 km) along the and utilizing Class 315 and later Class 345 trains. In 2018, TfL Rail expanded westward by taking over the service on 20 May between and Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 and 4, with integrated TfL ticketing and branding. This western extension was further developed on 15 December 2019 when services began running from to Reading in , spanning about 34 miles (55 km) and serving key suburban destinations along the . TfL Rail was operated by through its UK subsidiary, which was awarded the Train Operating Concession in 2014 to manage these routes as part of the broader project, a major infrastructure initiative sponsored by TfL and the UK since 2001. The service integrated with London's transport network by accepting cards and contactless payments, and it played a crucial role in testing and preparing the infrastructure for the full opening, including driver training and station upgrades. By 2020-21, TfL Rail had carried millions of passengers annually, contributing to reduced journey times and increased capacity on these corridors, with key performance metrics tracked by the Office of Rail and Road. On 24 May 2022, all TfL Rail services were rebranded and fully incorporated into the Elizabeth line upon the completion of the central London tunnels connecting the eastern and western branches, marking the end of the TfL Rail brand and the realization of Crossrail's vision for a high-frequency, 41-station route from Reading and Heathrow to Shenfield and Abbey Wood. This transition enhanced connectivity across Greater London and beyond, with the Elizabeth line now operated under a new concession awarded to GTS Rail Operations starting in 2025, while TfL retains oversight of specifications, fares, and network improvements.

History

Origins and formation

The origins of TfL Rail lie within the broader project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing east-west rail connectivity across and its suburbs. The project received statutory authorisation through the Crossrail Act 2008, which empowered the construction of new tunnels and the integration of existing suburban rail lines into a unified network. (TfL) played a central role as a project sponsor alongside the (DfT), focusing on incorporating suburban services into TfL's system and unified ticketing to improve accessibility and passenger experience. This integration was facilitated by the Crossrail Sponsors' Agreement signed between TfL and DfT following the Act's passage, outlining shared funding and operational responsibilities. In preparation for the eventual , TfL announced the creation of TfL Rail as a transitional brand in 2014, marking the phased takeover of commuter services from existing operators. On 18 July 2014, TfL revealed that () Limited would operate these initial services under the TfL Rail banner, starting with the transfer of stopping services from Abellio . This agreement included preparatory infrastructure upgrades and operational trials to align the services with standards, such as introducing new Class 345 trains and enhancing station facilities. TfL formally assumed responsibility for the Liverpool Street to Shenfield route on 31 May 2015, introducing simplified fares, contactless payments, and improved frequency as the first step in suburban rail devolution. Subsequent agreements extended TfL Rail's scope to the western branches. In May 2018, TfL took over the Heathrow Connect services from and Great Western Railway, operating between and Heathrow terminals 2&3 and 4, with plans for frequency increases and integration into the network. Preparatory works for the Reading branch involved coordination with for track enhancements and signalling upgrades, culminating in TfL assuming operations from Great Western Railway on 15 December 2019. These transitions were supported by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), which granted regulatory approvals for track access rights and infrastructure management through Rail for London (Infrastructure) Limited, TfL's subsidiary responsible for the network. TfL Rail operated as a bridge between legacy services and the full , with its formation enabling seamless progression to through-running services across the network.

Launch and initial services

TfL Rail services commenced on 31 May 2015, when took over operation of the commuter services between London Liverpool Street and Shenfield from . Operated by under an eight-year concession with an option to extend to ten years, the initial services utilized existing Class 315 and provided up to six per hour during times, covering the 25-mile route with stops at nine stations. From the outset, TfL introduced simplified fares aligned with the wider transport network, and all stations were staffed to TfL standards, enhancing customer service and security compared to the previous operator. Pay-as-you-go ticketing via cards and was integrated immediately, allowing seamless travel for over 100,000 weekly passengers and marking a key step in unifying 's rail fares. In June 2017, the nine-car Class 345 Aventra trains, built by Bombardier in , began entering passenger service on the Shenfield branch, gradually replacing the older fleet to increase capacity by 50% to around 1,500 passengers per train. These air-conditioned units featured walk-through interiors, real-time passenger information, and improved accessibility, contributing to higher scores. With the progressive introduction of new Class 345 trains, which operated alongside the existing Class 315 fleet, TfL Rail aligned operations with future standards. Staffing remained fully TfL-compliant, with dedicated customer service ambassadors at every station from first to last train. On 20 May 2018, TfL Rail expanded westward by absorbing the Heathrow Connect services from Paddington to Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3 and 4, previously operated by Great Western Railway. This integration added 15-mile routes with four trains per hour, providing direct links from central London to the airport without changes, and extended Oyster and contactless pay-as-you-go to the full network for the first time. The move improved connectivity for airport passengers, with fares capped at zonal rates, and maintained TfL's staffing model across the new stations. Early performance demonstrated strong uptake, with over 47 million passengers using the Liverpool Street–Shenfield section alone between May 2016 and May 2017, reflecting reliable operations and enhanced amenities. Public Performance Measure () reliability exceeded 95% in the initial years, outperforming many services through proactive maintenance and new technology. However, challenges emerged, including signal failures in 2019 that caused disruptions on both branches, attributed to aging and contributing to temporary delays amid preparations for full integration.

Expansions and challenges

The Reading branch was introduced in December 2019, with TfL Rail taking over stopping services from Great Western Railway between and Reading starting on 15 December, providing up to six trains per hour and extending the network westward to serve additional commuters outside . However, this rollout coincided with the onset of the in early 2020, leading to significant operational disruptions including temporary service suspensions in March 2020 and reduced frequencies to as low as two trains per hour on affected branches to prioritize measures. The posed severe challenges for TfL Rail, with passenger numbers plummeting by approximately 90% across Transport for London's network in due to lockdowns and travel restrictions, resulting in fares revenue dropping to just 10% of pre- levels and forcing the operator to maintain services for key workers. actions further complicated operations, as planned strikes by rail unions in and —though not directly on TfL Rail—caused knock-on disruptions through shared and staffing, including overtime bans that affected maintenance and reliability on the expanded branches. delays, such as ongoing platform lengthening works at stations like Ealing Broadway and to accommodate nine-car Class 345 trains, also hindered full service ramp-up, with some extensions postponed amid supply chain issues exacerbated by the crisis. Despite these hurdles, TfL Rail maintained a peak service frequency of six trains per hour on its core Liverpool Street to Shenfield route, supported by the progressive introduction of new Class 345 trains and signaling upgrades, which improved capacity and reliability in preparation for broader network integration.

Transition to Elizabeth line

The transition from TfL Rail to the commenced with the start of trial operations in the central section on 20 November 2021, marking the beginning of intensive testing to ensure safety and reliability ahead of passenger services. These trials involved operational exercises across the new tunnels and stations between and , building on the existing TfL Rail services on the peripheral routes. The concession was later extended by two years to May 2025 to support ongoing operations during the line's stabilization. The full opened to passengers on 24 May 2022, integrating the central section with the existing TfL Rail branches from Shenfield to Liverpool Street and from Reading/Heathrow to , with all services rebranded under the name on that date. Key milestones included the official withdrawal of the TfL Rail branding effective 24 May 2022 and the ongoing transfer of assets, such as stations and signalling infrastructure, from Limited to entities like Rail for London and for maintenance and operation. Post-transition, the existing infrastructure from the TfL Rail era continued in use but operated under the unified branding and fare system, enhancing connectivity across and the surrounding areas. However, some legacy challenges delayed complete integration, including the opening of on 24 October 2022 and the establishment of through services connecting Reading, Heathrow, and Shenfield to the central section on 6 November 2022. described the handover as a major achievement, with Andy Lord, 's , stating that the teams had delivered a railway ready to "revolutionise travel" and support long-term through increased capacity and reliability.

Services

Core route

The core route of TfL Rail comprised the suburban corridor from London Liverpool Street to Shenfield, spanning approximately 20 miles (32 km) along the slow lines of the . This double-track alignment served multiple intermediate stations, including Stratford, , , Manor Park, , , , , , , , and Brentwood, providing essential commuter connectivity for and residents. TfL Rail assumed operation of these services in May 2015, marking the initial phase of what would later integrate into the . Historically, the route formed part of the , originally electrified with 1.5 DC in 1949, converted to 6.25 AC overhead on 6 November 1960, and upgraded to 25 AC overhead on 24 January 1979 to align with national standards. This enabled more efficient electric operations, supporting increased service frequencies. During TfL Rail's tenure, stopping services ran at up to six trains per hour in periods, equating to an interval of every 10 minutes, with additional shorter workings to intermediate points like during rush hours. The route integrated with services at interchanges such as Liverpool Street and Stratford, facilitating seamless transfers for passengers. Unique to TfL Rail's operation, stations along the core route adopted TfL's iconic signage by 2018, featuring a blue bar adapted for the service to enhance brand consistency across the transport network. Accessibility enhancements included the installation of lifts at several stations, providing step-free access from street to platform at stops like and in 2019; lifts at and were completed in 2022. The route utilized a fleet of Class 315 and later Class 345 Aventra trains, optimized for high-capacity suburban travel.

Heathrow Connect integration

TfL Rail integrated the service on 20 May 2018, taking over operation of the stopping trains from London Paddington to as a precursor to the full rollout. This transition brought the airport branch under Transport for London's management, aligning it with the broader suburban rail network while maintaining the existing route focused on serving communities and airport passengers. The route covers approximately 15 miles from to Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 and Terminal 4, calling at five intermediate stations: Ealing Broadway, , , Hayes & Harlington, and Heathrow Central (Terminals 2 & 3). Initially operated with Class 360 electric multiple units, the service frequency was set at two trains per hour, matching the prior pattern but with enhanced ticketing options including and validity extended to the full route. Frequencies later increased to four trains per hour during peak periods following the introduction of Class 345 Aventra trains in subsequent years. The infrastructure shares tracks with the non-stop service along the relief lines to Heathrow Junction, before diverging onto dedicated airport rails approaching the terminals. From Heathrow Central, a short connects to Terminal 4, while a separate branch serves Terminal 5, enabling efficient access across the airport complex; direct TfL Rail services to Terminal 5 commenced in December 2019. To support airport travelers, TfL Rail introduced passenger features such as dedicated luggage areas in the Class 345 trains for up to three pieces of reasonable-sized baggage per person, in line with guidelines, and integrated air-rail connectivity through coordinated timetables with airport operations. These enhancements emphasized for passengers with suitcases, distinguishing the service from standard suburban routes while prohibiting oversized or hazardous items to ensure .

Reading services

TfL Rail's Reading services provided the western extension of the network beyond the core London routes, operating along the from to Reading over a distance of approximately 36 miles (58 km) and serving 14 stations including the two termini. These services, which integrated with the broader project, launched on 15 December 2019 when TfL Rail assumed operation of the previous Great Western Railway (GWR) stopping services on this corridor. At the time of launch, the route operated with partial inherited from ongoing upgrades, enabling electric train operations on newly completed sections while transitioning from prior workings; full electrification across the entire to Reading stretch was achieved by early 2020, allowing seamless electric haulage throughout. The services ran at a frequency of two trains per hour off-peak, with enhanced peak-hour provision reaching up to four trains per hour to accommodate commuter demand. Stopping patterns emphasized connectivity to principal towns, including all-stops operation to and while skipping minor intermediates like and Burnham on select workings to optimize journey times for longer-distance passengers. This approach delivered reliable access for local communities, with journey times from Reading to averaging around 30 minutes under electric traction. The route briefly referenced the Heathrow branches only at , where the integration diverged westward from the mainline platforms. Integration with GWR's faster intercity and semi-fast services posed operational challenges, necessitating precise pathing on the four-track section west of to avoid conflicts and ensure capacity for all operators on the shared infrastructure. Temporary disruptions during the final phases of works further complicated the rollout, including multi-day line blockades for installation and testing between and Reading, which resulted in replacement bus services and altered timetables through 2019. These issues were mitigated through collaborative planning between TfL, , and GWR, ultimately enabling the stable electric operation that defined the service until its rebranding as part of the in 2022.

Station operations

TfL Rail managed 24 stations across its three branches to Shenfield, Heathrow Airport, and Reading, with key locations including Liverpool Street and in , Shenfield in , Heathrow Airport terminals 2 & 3, 4, and 5, and Reading in . Station operations followed Transport for London's model, with dedicated staffing at all stations during service hours to provide assistance, manage flows, and ensure . Ticket barriers were upgraded to accept cards and contactless payments from May 2018, enabling seamless pay-as-you-go travel integrated with the wider TfL network. Real-time information systems, including digital displays and announcements for train times and disruptions, were progressively implemented across stations from 2018 onward as part of preparations for integration. Accessibility enhancements focused on step-free access, with upgrades such as new lifts installed at stations like , , , and by 2020, alongside ongoing works at where lifts and a new entrance building provided full step-free access between street and platforms by late 2022. Passenger usage reached a pre-pandemic peak of approximately 56 million journeys in 2019-20, reflecting growing demand on the network. Safety was prioritized through the TfL-wide initiative aiming for zero fatalities and serious injuries by 2041, with station staffing supporting incident response and crowd management protocols to prevent at platforms and entrances.

Infrastructure and rolling stock

Depots and maintenance

TfL Rail primarily utilized two key depots for train stabling, servicing, and engineering works: in , which supported services to Heathrow and Reading, and in , dedicated to Shenfield route operations. served as the main maintenance facility, handling daily servicing and heavy repairs for the western fleet, while provided essential stabling and lighter maintenance for eastern services, including shared facilities with other operators during the transition period. The Old Oak Common depot, redeveloped specifically for TfL Rail's needs, had a capacity to stable and maintain over 30 units, including up to 42 of the new Class 345 trains during peak operations. It played a crucial role in pre-opening tests for the project, hosting driver training, technical familiarization, and integration trials for the incoming fleet starting in 2017. depot complemented this by providing additional stabling for up to eight early Class 345 units on the Shenfield branch, with upgrades completed in May 2017 to accommodate passenger service introductions. Maintenance practices at these depots focused on ensuring fleet reliability through scheduled overhauls, component inspections, and specialized tasks such as wheel reprofiling using on-site lathes to address wear and maintain performance standards. At , nine dedicated roads within the maintenance shed supported heavy interventions on wheels, motors, and underframe components, while handled routine cleaning and basic servicing for stabled trains. These activities serviced the Class 345 Aventra fleet introduced under TfL Rail, ensuring compatibility with the evolving . Significant investments exceeding £100 million were made to upgrade both depots for the Class 345 fleet, with alone receiving approximately £189 million in construction and equipping costs to enable automated washing, synchronized jacking, and advanced diagnostic systems. These enhancements supported TfL Rail's operational demands from onward. Depot operations fully transitioned to the branding and management structure in May 2022, aligning with the central section opening and integrating maintenance under Crossrail's oversight.

Signalling and technology

TfL Rail operations primarily relied on legacy conventional signalling systems, including the Automatic Warning System (AWS) and Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS), for services between Shenfield and Liverpool Street, which commenced in May 2015. These arrangements allowed for the initial introduction of Class 345 trains under TfL management while preparing the network for advanced systems. The Heathrow branch, operational from May 2018, initially used conventional signalling; (ETCS) Level 2 signalling from Airport Junction to Heathrow terminals was implemented in July 2020, marking an early adoption of digital train control on the route. This setup served as a precursor to the full integration of (CBTC) across the central operating section (CCOS) upon the transition to the in May 2022, with CBTC enabling moving-block operations and up to 24 trains per hour. Technology integrations during TfL Rail included ongoing trials and preparations for ETCS Level 2 on the Reading branch, part of the broader enhancements, where tests on Class 387 trains between Reading and Heathrow demonstrated compatibility with digital in-cab signalling in 2020. (PSDs) were installed at the eight underground stations of the future CCOS (such as and ) as part of infrastructure, enhancing by preventing track falls, though they became operational only post-transition. These features contributed to a unified framework, with depots like supporting maintenance of ETCS-equipped . Operational tools encompassed a centralized control environment managed by TfL, including the Rail for London Operations team overseeing services from a dedicated route control centre at Lillie Road, which integrated monitoring for TfL Rail and prepared for demands. In 2020, the launch of the TfL Go app provided passengers with live tracking for TfL Rail services, offering real-time arrival times, journey planning, and disruption alerts across bus, , and rail modes. Safety records under TfL Rail showed improvements, with one signal passed at danger (SPAD) incident reported in the year to February 2019, occurring on 29 May 2018 between Liverpool Street and Shenfield. Overall passenger accidents decreased significantly from previous periods, with eight minor incidents in the first nine months of 2018 compared to higher rates under prior operators, reflecting enhanced training and system reliability. These outcomes underscored the effectiveness of the transitional signalling and control measures in reducing risk.

Fleet composition

The primary fleet of TfL Rail comprised 70 nine-car Class 345 Aventra electric multiple units, manufactured by at its Derby Litchurch Lane Works in the . These trains, part of Bombardier's Aventra platform, were designed specifically for high-capacity suburban and metro-style services. The Class 345 units featured open-plan, walk-through interiors to facilitate passenger flow, full air-conditioning for passenger comfort, and to enhance . Each nine-car set measured approximately 205 meters in length, with a top speed of 90 (145 /h), a of 450 passengers, and a total capacity exceeding 1,500 including standing room. The first Class 345 trains entered passenger service on the TfL Rail Shenfield Metro route in June 2017, initially operating as seven-car formations to accommodate existing platform lengths at London Liverpool Street; full nine-car operations expanded progressively, with Heathrow services commencing in May 2018 and the complete fleet of 70 units deployed across all branches by 2021. Upon TfL Rail's rebranding and integration into the in May 2022, the entire fleet transferred seamlessly without structural or operational modifications.

Livery and branding

TfL Rail adopted the iconic Transport for London (TfL) roundel as part of its visual identity upon its launch on 31 May 2015, marking the first adaptation of the symbol specifically for suburban rail services outside the London Underground and Overground networks. The roundel, originally developed in 1908 and refined by Edward Johnston, was customized with "TfL Rail" text in the blue bar to unify the service under TfL's branding while distinguishing it from existing National Rail operations. This adaptation emphasized continuity with TfL's established modes of transport, using the Johnston typeface for legibility and familiarity. The for TfL Rail featured a distinctive purple and white on the Class 345 Aventra trains, introduced progressively from June 2018 to replace older units on the Shenfield and Heathrow branches. This color scheme, specified as Purple ( 266c) with white accents, was designed to evoke modernity and integration with the forthcoming full network, applied to the exterior and interiors for a cohesive aesthetic. The 's purple hue served as a transitional element, bridging TfL Rail's interim role and the eventual identity. Station signage during TfL Rail's operation combined elements of National Rail and TfL designs to reflect its hybrid status as a TfL-managed service on the national network, with directional signs incorporating the TfL roundel alongside traditional National Rail eagle logos at interchanges. By 2020, as the service expanded, signage was progressively updated to prioritize TfL elements, including larger roundels and consistent Johnston typeface usage for improved passenger wayfinding, in line with TfL's interchange standards. This hybrid approach ensured clarity for users transitioning between networks while gradually embedding TfL's visual dominance. Marketing efforts for TfL Rail focused on promoting seamless integration with TfL's fare system, featuring campaigns that highlighted and acceptance across the service from its 2015 inception. Posters, digital ads, and the TfL Go app emphasized accessibility and connectivity, with messaging such as "TfL Rail: every journey matters" to encourage uptake of TfL ticketing on former and routes. These initiatives, rolled out via station displays and online platforms, aimed to build passenger confidence in the service's alignment with the broader TfL ecosystem. The transition from TfL Rail branding occurred in May 2022 with the opening of the central section, involving a gradual rebranding to the full identity featuring the purple and consistent purple-white across all branches. This shift replaced TfL Rail logos and signage with Elizabeth line equivalents at stations and on trains, completing the visual unification under TfL while honoring the service's interim role in preparing passengers for the expanded network.

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