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TfL Delays New Piccadilly Line Trains to Dec 2026–June 2027, Budget Rises to £3.4bn

The slip reflects the challenge of integrating software‑heavy stock with century‑old infrastructure.

Overview

  • TfL says the programme requires an extra £409m, driven largely by upgrades at the Northfields and Cockfosters depots.
  • Overnight and weekend test running continues, with TfL stressing safety and reliability before passenger service.
  • Engineering work includes software and braking changes, retrofitting traction cables, and validating a new driver camera system.
  • The rollout plan is being reprofilled, delaying the retirement of the 1975 trains and pushing back earlier targets for full fleet introduction.
  • Passengers face planned closures between Acton Town and Heathrow from May 28–31 and a limited service between Acton Town and Heathrow from July 30 to August 3.