When a Jubilee Line train derails out of Baker Street

June 2014 updated April 2016

“Dear London Tube:

“I thought I’d drop you a note about the uncomfortable, if not dangerous, state of the Jubilee tube track south bound out of Baker Street, possibly echoing reports from your drivers.  Some 10-20 metres out of the platform there is sudden jolt to the left.  The first time I experienced this, I banged my head on the superstructure, causing much merriment amongst my fellow travellers.  On the second and third times I was more aware, but forgetfulness returned on the fourth occasion, and head got a severe bang again – and probably further memory loss!   I’ve now pretty much got used to it, but feel that the wearing of a cycle helmet should not be required on the tube.”   The ref. for your enquiry is: 1013564758

The response I received from The Tube was a withering thanks – but you’re a fool.  Well that’s the way it appeared. The line crew had checked and there was nothing wrong. I insisted that there was, but they replied that a certain member of staff travels on that line all the time, and she assured them that there was nothing wrong.

And now two years later, I still see people banging heads, losing balance and being jolted  at a point some 10 to 20 metres south bound travelling out of Baker Street on the Jubilee Line.

It reminds me of most of the journey on the Metroplitan Line travelling in from Rickmansworth in the 1990s.  The state of the track was so bad there that I understand a change to the bogie structure (the bit that holds the wheels) had to be abandoned because breakages were occurring on test.  The intention was to create an H frame to hold the axles, to save the weight and cost of a full box frame.  Now the track (permanent way – I know all the jargon) and the carriages (cars/stock) have been improved, it’s quite a pleasant journey.

Let’s hope similar improvements can be made to the Jubilee Line.