Sutton Loop Line

Sutton Loop Line
Sutton platform 2 looking towards West junction with the St Helier Line
Overview
StatusOperational
OwnerNetwork Rail
ELR
  • SMS1 (Streatham South Jn–Wimbledon)
  • SMS2 (Wimbledon–Sutton)
LocaleLondon Boroughs of Merton and Sutton
Termini
Stations14
Service
TypeHeavy rail
SystemNational Rail
Services
Operator(s)Govia Thameslink Railway
Depot(s)
Rolling stock
Technical
Number of tracks
Track gauge1,435 mm (4 ft 8+12 in) standard gauge
Operating speedMaximum 60 mph [1]
Route map

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The Sutton Loop Line,[1] also known as the Wimbledon Loop,[2] is a railway line that diverges from the Portsmouth Line[1] at Streatham South junction and rejoins it near Sutton station. Trains leave southwards from Streatham to enter the loop and then return going northwards. The short section between West Sutton station and West junction is known as the "Wall of Death",[3] possibly due to the very steep concrete walls to the cutting on both sides and the sharpness of the curve which resemble the motorcycle ride at a funfair.

  1. ^ a b c Network Rail (April 2001). Southern Appendix. Vol. Module SO. p. 1/272. A0260A03. Retrieved 2012-01-12
  2. ^ Department of Transport press release. "Government safeguards future of the Wimbledon Loop". UK government.
  3. ^ Quail Map 5 - England South & London Underground [page 22] September 2002 (Retrieved 2012-01-12)