Northern line to shut for more days during Colindale work

Commuters were warned earlier this year that there would be a series of closures between Golders Green And Edgware on the Northern line this year due to building work taking place at Colindale station.

This already took place From April 2 to April 11, June 8 to June 9, June 15 to June 16 and June 29 to June 30.

Large queues during the April closure (Image: Colindale Station - Yes to Redevelopment, No to Closure)

Previously, further closures were expected between July 27 and July 28 - however TfL has now extended this with two additional days this summer.

Stations on the Edgware branch will now be shut between July 25 to July 28.

Later on in the year, the same stations will be closed on September 7 and September 8.

Why is this happening?

Colindale station is receiving a major upgrade after TfL secured £43.1 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund to upgrade both Colindale and Leyton stations.

It means they will have step-free access for the first time.

TfL said the station, in its current state, was projected to reach passenger capacity by 2026.

Under the new plans, the 1960s entrance will be replaced with a new building, a spacious ticket hall and step-free access.

The station was closed from June 7 and is scheduled to reopen in December - although locals fear it could take longer.

How has the Colindale work affected people?

People living in Colindale have slammed TfL for its inconsistent replacement services.

Alternative ways of getting around are being offered - such as an additional NL6 bus route running every 15 minutes at peak times on weekdays between Colindale and Hendon Central.

TfL claims all journeys on the route will be free of charge, while any journeys taken on the 186 between Mill Hill Broadway and Hendon Central will be auto-refunded.

Commuters waiting a while in the rain on June 13 (Image: Janice)

But this paper has heard that reports of inconsistencies in when these buses arrive at their stops, with some taking roughly 15 to 20 minutes – but others reportedly waiting up to 30 minutes.

Others say that during peak times, buses end up being full and drive past the bus stop completely.

What has TfL said?

Given the flurry of complaints, TfL was asked whether it would consider refining its alternative methods of transport over the coming months.

A spokesperson responded: “The major upgrade of Colindale station is set to transform the journeys of many thousands of our customers for decades to come.

“We understand that a station closure causes disruption for customers but we are committed to ensuring that people can complete their journeys using the public transport network during the closure period.

“We reviewed our arrangements following the part closure of the Northern line earlier this year. In response to issues reported by customers, we have introduced an additional, free-of-charge bus route (NL6) on weekdays at peak times. We are also automatically refunding customers travelling on bus route 186 between Mill Hill Broadway and Hendon Central stations.

 “We are confident that there is sufficient capacity on all alternative routes, but will continue to monitor demand during the closure of the station."