Testing works delay opening of Mitcham Eastfields station

The planned opening of a new £6m station at Mitcham Eastfields has been delayed because of testing works.

The station was expected to open this morning, but Network Rail said it wasn’t likely to be able to take passengers until later this week.

A Network Rail spokesman said an exact date was not known, but it “hoped to open it some time this week”.

The rail provider refuted claims the delay was due to over-running building work by main contractor Dean and Dyball.

“There is a difference between finishing the project and opening it to passengers,” the spokesman said.

“There is a footbridge that needs lifts installed in it yet. But the project continues – the next bit is getting it open to passengers.

“Work will be completed in July.”

The new station is built in the Network Rail’s new modular format and will be a 10-minute walk from the Mitcham town centre.

Previously the closest station was at Mitcham Junction, almost 2km from the town centre.