New images released by Crossrail highlight the progress being made above ground for the Elizabeth line.

The latest pictures show construction shaping up outside new stations along the route which will connect Reading and Heathrow in the west and Shenfiled and Abbey Wood to the east.

Developments can be seen at a number of stations including Paddington , Tottenham Court Road and Whitechapel.

Here is a rundown of the works under way along part of the new railway line which is due to open in December 2018.

  • Paddington: Construction has started along the 120 metre long glazed canopy that will let natural light reach the platforms 30 metres below.
  • Tottenham Court Road: Brick and stone finishes are being installed on the two separate buildings that have been built above the station in Dean Street.
Paddington Station canopy steel framework under construction
  • Whitechapel Durward Street head house: The bell-wave pattern on the cladding of the ventilation shaft reflects the historic Whitechapel bell foundries.
  • Victoria Dock Portal head house: Colourful architectural finish on the top of the ventilation and emergency access shaft near Custom House station.
Elizabeth line map
  • Woolwich: The size, colour and material of the brickwork that clads the station and ventilation buildings echo the masonry of the armories that once stood in the area.
  • Abbey Wood: The new timber and glass entrance of the nearly-complete station being delivered by Network Rail.
- Tottenham Court Road station western ticket hall entrance

Simon Wright, Crossrail programme director, said: “Since construction began in 2009, much of the work for the Elizabeth line has mostly taken place below ground.

"The new stations and structures can now be seen rising upwards giving passengers a glimpse of their new railway that will open on time in December 2018.”

Canary Wharf public roof garden

Last month, Crossrail released images from inside the Elizabeth line of tunnels and track work.

The TfL-run railway will see services through central London open in December 2018.

A total of five stations the line will use in west London which have been delayed until 2019

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