“Stop by Stop” returns and we’re back on the London Trams network. Having previously taken a look at the stops on the Beckenham Junction and Elmers End lines for the next seven weeks we’ll be taking a look at the stops on the New Addington line and we start at the terminus.
Whilst much of the London Trams network saw the conversion of former railway lines, the majority of the New Addington line is new build with it not having previously seen any form of rail-borne transport serving it.
The terminus at New Addington features an island platform and with trams running every 7/8 minutes (to West Croydon, with just a few early morning and late evening services running to Therapia Lane or Wimbledon) for most of the time it is not unusual that there will be a tram on either side of the platform, at least for a short period. As with all stops there are no ticket machines anymore although you will find validators for your Oyster card or contactless payment method. There are also passenger information display letting you know when the next trams is, general tram information (including outline timetables), shelters, seating, lighting and CCTV.
The stop itself is located by a medical centre and is not far from a parade of shops. The main purpose of this line is to give the residents of New Addington better access into Croydon (and beyond) and the line is usually fairly busy for most of the day.
CR4000 2532 stands at New Addington terminus at the right-hand platform (in direction of travel). The stop is surrounded by plenty of grass and other greenery to try and make it look nicer, and there is also lots of housing nearby giving potential passengers for the tram. This image comes from 9th March 2012 at a time when trams still showed route numbers, but little has changed at the stop since.
On 27th April 2024 and we take a look at a tram (2553) in the opposite platform. This photo also allows us chance to see more of the wider area around the stop as well as what is seen on the platform. Also note the buffers at the end of the track on the left. (Both Photographs by Gareth Prior)