Good News for the Hertford Loop Rail Service Users as Tests Commence on Stevenage New Platform 5

Two rail replacement bus service has been operation Mondays - Fridays on the Hertford Loop while Network Rail complete a major upgrade to Stevenage Station.

• Between Stevenage and Watton-at-Stone - served by a people carrier
• Between Stevenage and Hertford North - served by a double decker bus

This involves not only Stevenage Station but also the track that connects Stevenage with Watton-at-Stone and destinations further south on the Hertford Loop. A major element in the upgrade is the construction of a new fifth platform at Stevenage. However, extensive work to the track, signalling and other infrastructure is required to connect services to the Watton-at-Stone line.

The project will enable more trains per hour to be run between Stevenage and Watton-at-Stone. It means better links with other destinations on the East Coast Main Line such as Cambridge and it will help to make train services more reliable.

It is excellent news that testing of the new platform has started. The end of the bus replacement services between Stevenage and Hertford North and between Stevenage and Watton-at-Stone will certainly be welcomed.

Completion should be ready in time for Summer Timetable and it is expected that more passengers will result from the improved services to Moorgate.

Picture by Steve White