Transport

Work underway to modernise Jubilee control centre

The Jubilee line’s control centre at Neasden is set for a major makeover, including the introduction of new technology and a new, modern, layout to improve communication between controllers.

Maintenance firm Tube Lines started work on the control room earlier this week and expect to complete the upgrade by the end of next year. Neaden is one of two control centres for the Jubilee line, the other is located at Baker Street.

Tube Lines says the the makeover will make Neasden one of the most advanced line control bases in the world. Dispensing with the traditional classroom layout which is typical of control centres, service controllers will sit in a circular layout to ensure they can easily communicate with each other.

It’s claimed that this new layout and the introduction of new multi-functional desks will staff to flexibly oversee smoother services and respond more effectively should problems arise or incidents happen.

Conrad Fawcett, Senior Project Manager at Tube Lines said: “It’s a tough job to completely refit a live control centre, but our careful planning and the teamwork we’re seeing from London Underground mean we’re confident all will run according to plan. When the changeover is complete, service controllers will have a state-of-the-art base to provide the best passenger services.”

The company has worked with London Underground to design the most effective control centre to satisfy Jubilee line operational needs.

Paul Kilius-Smith, Head of Operational Upgrades at London Underground said: “The line upgrade being delivered by Tube Lines will enable us to provide passengers with faster, more frequent services. The London Underground service control team face a challenge in continuing to do their jobs ‘Keeping London moving’ while upgrade work goes on around them - the combination of their professionalism and thorough planning by all involved gives me confidence that all will go smoothly.”