Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the plan to revamp all Central line trains by 2030 remains on track, despite claims of delays. Since the first refurbished train re-entered service in October 2024, only five out of 85 trains have been completed, leaving 80 more to be upgraded by March 2030. The £500 million project has already spent more than half its budget, with £266 million allocated so far.
Current progress and financial status
As of June 2026, only five refurbished trains are in service. TfL attributes the spending of £266 million to design, preliminary tasks, and materials for the bulk of the trains, as well as resources to date. The upgrades include new seating, wheelchair bays, CCTV in carriages, and information screens showing each station.
In the current financial year from April 2026 to March 2027, engineers plan to refurbish six trains. This will gradually increase to 18 trains in 2027-28, 31 trains in 2028-29, and 25 trains in 2029-30 to meet the 2030 deadline.
Operational challenges and background
Jasmit Jabbal, TfL engagement lead for North East London and Essex, told Epping Forest District Council in January 2026 that motor failure issues on dozens of Central line trains over the prior 18 months forced engineers to temporarily shift priorities to prevent line closures. The condition of Central line trains has severely deteriorated over the past five years.
The refurbishment project was conceived about a decade ago to extend the lifespan of trains built in the early 1990s into the 2040s. The £500 million overhaul is seen as a much cheaper alternative to replacing the entire fleet, which would cost an estimated £1 billion.
Official statements
Richard Jones, TfL's director of asset performance delivery, said in February 2026: "We are undertaking the most significant overhaul project in the history of London Underground. This crucial and innovative work will refresh the ageing trains on the Central line and ensure trains will continue to operate, extending their working life."
