Major signal problems could prevent Crossrail from opening on time in 2018.

The new £15billion railway will link Heathrow with central London but engineers have admitted signal issues could mean a reduced service is run from the get-go.

The setback was revealed by project chairman, Terry Morgan, who confirmed a “mitigation plan” was being put in place as it grows increasingly likely that signalling on the line won’t work properly.

A source inside the project told The Independent it was even possible no trains would be running at all in 2018.

The reason could be a mix of traditional metro signalling and state-of-the-art systems. According to reports engineers are struggling to link trains on the new tracks to existing major cross-country rail lines.

Crossrail services between London Paddington and Heathrow are set to begin in 2018.

From 2019, the full route will open, with up to 10 services per hour in each direction serving Hayes and Harlington station, allowing passengers to travel right through central London without having to change trains.

An artist's impression of Hayes and Harlington Crossrail station

The Transport for London-owned company has applied to build a new station at Hayes and Harlington complete with a light and airy, glass and steel building with steps, lifts, waiting areas and a coffee shop.

It has also been working with Hillingdon Council on proposals for improvements to the area around the station, including a new public space in Station Approach and improved pedestrian and cycle connectivity to the station through better pedestrian crossings, continuous cycle lanes, tree planting and safer junctions.

Mr Morgan and Crossrail chief executive Andrew Wolstenholme will be quizzed on potential Crossrail delays by the London Assembly Transport Committee at City Hall on Wednesday.