Northern line extension celebrates centenary

The centenary of the Northern line extension to Morden in south London is to be celebrated with a special treasure hunt along the route.

Participants can explore the history, architecture and heritage of the Art Deco style stations between Morden and Clapham South, which opened 100 years ago, on 13 September 1926.

The seven stations on the route - also including South Wimbledon, Colliers Wood, Tooting Broadway, Tooting Bec and and Balham, were designed by architect Charles Holden and built in a modernist style, marking a change of direction for Underground design.

The Transport for London (TfL) event on Saturday will explore spots along the route and showcase Holden's architecture.

Ending at Clapham South, participants who have completed the challenge will have the chance of winning a commemorative prize.

The Northern line extension brought the Underground deep into south London for the first time, connecting previously rural areas to central London.

The line extension boosted economic growth in the area, supporting business and construction.

Now, Morden station has about 25,000 entries and exits each weekday.

Nightlife has also been boosted by the route's inclusion on the Night Tube, Transport for London (TfL) said.

Ann Gavaghan, customer experience manager at TfL said the Northern line extension to Morden "transformed travel in south London and introduced a collection of stations that remain some of the most recognisable and admired on the Underground network.

"As we celebrate their centenary, we're delighted to invite Londoners and visitors to discover the history, architecture and stories behind these remarkable buildings."

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