The central section of the Elizabeth line running from Paddington to Abbey Wood will now open at least nine months later than originally planned.

Crossrail has announced today that services on the line will now open in autumn 2019. They were originally planned to start in December of 2018.

According to Crossrail, extra time is needed to "ensure a safe and reliable railway for customers from day one of passenger service."

It adds more time is needed to complete the infrastructure and testing of trains on the line.

The Crossrail project has already been 10 years in the making, but project developers insist the extra time is essential to make sure the service is secure.

Simon Wright, Crossrail chief executive, said: “The Elizabeth line is one of the most complex and challenging infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the UK and is now in its final stages.

"We have made huge progress with the delivery of this incredible project but we need further time to complete the testing of the new railway.

"We are working around the clock with our supply chain and Transport for London to complete and commission the Elizabeth line.”

Elizabeth line trains are already operating between Chenfield and Liverpool Street and Paddington and Hayes and Harlington in testing stages.

When completed, the line is expected to accommodate up to 200 million passengers every year.