1 week Ago By [email protected] (Will Twigger)
On the Tube, the Northern line whisks travellers from the northern reaches of Edgware or High Barnet straight to Morden in the far south. However, two stops in South London, Clapham North and Clapham Common , pose a unique risk during the jam-packed rush hour with their island platforms – a slim strip of land sandwiched between northbound and southbound lines leaving passengers feeling stranded. While these platforms can make for an unsettling wait amidst a sea of commuters due to potential overcrowding, they hold a distinct place in history.
Open since June 3, 1900, they stand as the last two survivors featuring this design in station tunnels. The island platforms occasionally spark comments on social media, with one individual admitting: "Clapham Common and Clapham North Station creep me out though. Them island platforms give me the heeby jeebys.
" Another candidly advised: "Really got to have your wits about you at Clapham Common station with that island platform...
" Unlike Angel station, which has seen its island platforms replaced, these last two holdouts face a unique challenge due to their antiquated design, tailored for the trains of yesteryear. Modernising the tunnels isn't straightforward; it's a costly and complex task that would also mean shutting down two stations beloved by locals. Back in 2019, Mayor Sadiq Khan was questioned about potential solutions for the congestion at these stations.
His reply was clear: "To manage congestion at these stations, TfL restricts entry into the ticket hall and platform areas until the crowding has subsided." He added, "Customers are made aware of the times that the stations are most busy. Customers are also encouraged to use local transport alternatives.
At present, TfL does not have any plans to upgrade either station to provide additional capacity." You can sign up to get the latest London public transport news, live updates and fun trivia sent straight to your WhatsApp from the MyLondon team. This will include updates on the Tube, DLR, Overground, National Rail services, buses and more.
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