Transport for London is removing a noise reduction system from the Northern line track between South Wimbledon and Morden. People have expressed concerns on social media that the noise pollution will “switch back on overnight” after the removal of the measure.
TfL had previously installed a Pandrol Vanguard (PV) on the southbound Northern line track – which is a fastening system to decrease vibrations. However, it said that noise problems have persisted despite this installation so have decided to remove it. It is hoped that the removal of the measure will reduce the sound disturbance that people in the area have experienced. TfL does not expect the removal of the Pandrol Vanguard to lead to an increase in noise in nearby properties, but has said it will take further action to address it if this happens. Work will be carried out on the line from Sunday, April 3 and continue until the summer.
TfL believes that rail roughness, which causes extra vibrations, is likely to build up slower in this area if the Pandrol Vanguard is removed. TfL claims it will continue to prevent more noise disruption by removing redundant rail joints, maintaining the track and has also undertaken a significant amount of rail grinding in the last six months. Regular rail grinding is expected to continue in the area and will occur up to once a year.
After the Pandrol Vanguard is removed, TfL plans to install 340 meters of new rail and says it will carry out further investigations about noise levels once the rail has had the chance to “bed-in”. A spokesperson for Transport for London said: “We understand the importance of minimising noise levels on the Tube and are determined to do more to achieve this.