The Class 313 EMU, though descended from the 2 and 4 Pep, is most definitely not a Southern EMU. These
dual voltage (25kV ac overhead and 750V dc third rail) EMUs were first
introduced in 1976 for the newly opened GN suburban services into Moorgate. The
class subsequently replaced the MR Class 501 EMUs on the dc suburban lines into
Euston. Later they extended their operations to the North London Line and
finally to a new Clapham Junction to Willesden Junction service. They even
operated some WAGN services into Liverpool Street for a short while.
So why include them on the SREmG site? Tenuous connections and justification,
but:
- after Class 501 operation on the North London line ceased and before this
class was introduced Bulleid design 2 EPB EMUs,
fitted with bars over windows which opened, operated the North London Line
service
- the southern part of the Clapham Junction to Willesden Junction route is
over a former "joint" line in which the LSWR/SR owned a stake. See here for further details.
- the Richmond to South Acton Junction portion of the North London line was
formerly owned by the LSWR/SR. The station buildings at Kew Gardens are
quintessential LSWR design, as were those at Gunnersbury before they were
demolished in 1964 to make way for a horrid high rise office block
development.
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