After more than a decade in limbo, London’s much-anticipated Crossrail 2 project is finally moving out of the planning phase – with initial construction work slated to begin next year. While the full rail line is far from finalised, this marks a significant milestone for a project that has been discussed since 2013 and endured numerous controversies, public consultations, and delays.
What is Crossrail 2?
Crossrail 2, or CR2, is envisioned as a transformative new railway line for the capital, running from Epsom in south London to Broxbourne in the north. The proposed route would travel through key locations including Dalston, Angel, Clapham Junction, and Wimbledon – offering a north-south link akin to what the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail 1) achieved in east-west connectivity. These plans, however, remain subject to revision and have not been fully approved.
The British Library connection: first phase of CR2
The breakthrough comes as part of the British Library’s upcoming £1.1 billion expansion, which was green lit earlier this year. This project includes the construction of a large new office building on land reserved for the CR2’s future Euston/St Pancras station. As a result, the developers have agreed to integrate essential CR2 infrastructure into the basement of this building during its construction. This part of the project will proceed even as the broader rail line awaits official sign-off.
What will be built as part of the British Library expansion?
Mace, a major construction group, has signed on to handle both the British Library expansion and the initial CR2 works. This first phase will involve:
- A deep shaft running six underground levels to connect with eventual railway tunnels
- An underground pedestrian passageway, creating a route from the future station platform to a ticket hall planned under Midland Road
- Once completed, these new underground sections will remain unused until full approval and funding for the rest of Crossrail 2 is secured.
When will the Crossrail 2 and British Library expansion begin?
Work is set to begin in 2026, with the entire British Library expansion (including CR2 elements) expected to take about six years. If timelines hold, Crossrail 2’s first segment could be finished by 2032. However, there is still uncertainty – until the broader rail line is authorised, the newly built spaces related to CR2 will simply be left empty and unused.
While full completion of Crossrail 2 is not yet guaranteed, for now, Londoners can look forward to the prospect of enhanced north-south rail connectivity!
