TfL and borough councils say they're ready for cold snap

Transport for London said on Tuesday that was once again joining forces with the capital’s local councils to develop and implement coordinated plans to help keep London moving during severe winter weather.

The transport authority said it would be “working hard” to keep its rail and strategic road networks open and running during any ice or snow, including major arterial roads and cycle routes, as well as footways around bus and railway stations, hospitals and police, fire and ambulance stations across London.

Both TfL and London’s boroughs have joint salt stores at key locations across the capital, it said, which held enough grit to keep London’s roads and footways open.

Residents were asked to check before travelling during the forecast severe cold weather period, and to allow extra journey time where necessary.

On London Underground, TfL said de-icing trains would be running overnight, keeping tracks as clear as possible, with “well-rehearsed plans” also including treating platforms to keep them safe for customers.

Points heaters would be keeping the tram network in south London operational during freezing weather as well, with tram platforms and crossings also to be gritted.

Out of service trams would be kept running during the night to keep overhead electrical lines clear of snow and ice.

On the DLR, heaters were in operation on tracks, with teams of staff gritting station platforms, while on London Overground, trains that are fitted with de-icing tanks would be operating across the network to ensure conductor rails were free of ice.

Station surfaces there would also be gritted, with conductor rail heating installed at “key parts” of the network.

“We have well-rehearsed procedures in place, in partnership with all London boroughs and the emergency services, to keep the capital moving during any wintry weather,” said TfL’s director of network management Glynn Barton.

“We will be working around the clock to help keep the rail and strategic road networks up and running, as well as ensuring that footways and cycling routes remain safe.

“We encourage customers to check before they travel during cold and icy weather, using our website or our Twitter feeds.”

Councillor Julian Bell, chair of the transport and environment committee at London Councils, which represents the 32 boroughs and the City of London Corporation, said local councils would work to ensure that the capital was able to keep moving as smoothly and as safely as possible during bouts of icy and snowy weather conditions.

“London boroughs are responsible for 95% of the capital’s roads and are working with TfL and other partners around the clock to keep key routes open as normal.”

Bell said the boroughs would be implementing “carefully prepared plans” to minimise disruption, and working with local communities to keep roads and pavements clear of snow and ice.

“Please take care when travelling in adverse conditions and check the latest travel advice and information on what is happening in your area.”