After more than a month of delays, we were happy to be informed by TfL this morning that Croydon’s tram service is fully operational once again.
Over the past couple of weeks, we have been seeking information and assurances from TfL as to the source of this disturbance. The most recent disruption was apparently caused by a maintenance check on the 4th of May which revealed that a number of trams had damaged wheels. This damage was likely caused by debris on the tracks, with the affected trams having to be removed from service.
While safety is naturally paramount, we are disappointed that these repairs have taken so long to be resolved. So many of us rely on the tram service to get to work and school, and service closures and delays add lengthy waits onto our journey times at the start and end of the working day. Although enhancements to the existing bus routes were put in place throughout this period, this was not sufficient to meet the day-to-day demand of commuters in and around Croydon.
We have seen a lot of disruption this year. This is unacceptable. We are meeting with TfL to discuss whether there is a more endemic problem with our tram service that needs resolving.
Much of our tram stock in Croydon is coming to the end of its natural life. As the trams get older, breakdowns become increasingly likely, and it is clear that we need to replenish this stock as soon as possible. We need a timeline on this work.
It is vital that new trams become operational as soon as possible to prevent further delays. We will update you on any progress made.
It is vital that new trams become operational as soon as possible to prevent further delays. We will update you on any progress made.
Sarah Jones MP and Natasha Irons (Labour candidate for Croydon East)
