The City of London Corporation welcomes the announcement from Transport for London (TfL) that the Waterloo & City line will re-open today, two weeks ahead of schedule. 
 
The underground line shuttles passengers from Waterloo station, which services train lines to Surrey and beyond, to Bank station in the heart of the Square Mile. It was closed by TfL in March last year following Government advice to work from home as part of its response to the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
TfL had previously announced the service was to reopen from 21 June but revealed today that the line was able to reopen earlier than anticipated. 
 
The Waterloo & City line will initially run on weekdays, every five minutes between 6:00 to 10:00 and 15:30 to 19:00. 
 
Lord Mayor William Russell, who was on board one of the first Waterloo & City line trains, said: 
 
“The Waterloo & City line is an absolutely vital service for the Square Mile’s businesses, workers, residents and visitors. 
 
“With the vast majority of our workforce commuting from elsewhere in London or further afield across England, it is of great importance that the City is accessible as we look to the next phase of recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
“It is an absolute pleasure to have had a taste of normality and to be back on board the Waterloo & City line today. 
 
“We look forward to many more commuters soon enjoying this service as they once again make the journey to the Square Mile.”
 
Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, Catherine McGuinness, said: 
 
“Today’s reopening of the historic Waterloo & City line is an exciting and vital moment in the Square Mile’s recovery as it marks a huge step on our journey back to normality. 
 
“The Waterloo & City line will support the return of the City’s commuting workforce back to the Square Mile as the easing of restrictions allows. The additional footfall generated will also provide reassurance to the many businesses that rely on commuter traffic for trade.
 
“We warmly welcome the line back into service today, as we look ahead to a successful and sustainable economic recovery and a restoring of life and vibrancy to City streets.”
 
Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, Alastair Moss, said: 
 
“TfL’s services are an essential part of City’s transport network, with an astounding 93% of pre-pandemic commuter travel to the Square Mile being by public transport, walking or cycling. 
 
“Following a steadily rise in commuter numbers over recent weeks, today’s reopening of the Waterloo & City line provides an important additional route for those travelling to and from the City. 
 
“From today, our workers, residents and visitors are once again able to be easily transported from Waterloo station directly into the heart of the City. This is a very welcome step as our economy gets back on track.”
 
Face coverings must still be worn across the transport network and those using public transport are encouraged to check before they travel.