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The Aldgate East station, a crucial stop on the London Underground serving the District and Hammersmith and City lines, has a fascinating history that many commuters may not be aware of. In a bold move to improve the efficiency and safety of the Tube system, London Transport decided to relocate the station a few feet up the road in 1938.

A Massive Undertaking: 900 Men Move Station for Renovation

This relocation was not a simple task by any means. It required the efforts of 900 workers who toiled through the night of October 30, 1938, to drop the track seven feet and move the entire station to its new site. The decision to move Aldgate East came as a result of a tight curve between the station and Liverpool Street, causing significant delays and disruptions to train services.

Historical Context: The Evolution of Aldgate East

The original site of Aldgate East station, located next to The Aldgate Exchange Pub, is now undergoing a transformation into The Playhouse student accommodation. Interestingly, there used to be another station called St Mary’s nestled between Aldgate East and Whitechapel. However, with the relocation of Aldgate East closer to St Mary’s, London Transport made the strategic decision to close down both St Mary’s and the old Aldgate East station.

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The story of Aldgate East serves as a reminder of the incredible feats of engineering and coordination that have shaped the London Underground into the iconic transportation network it is today. Next time you pass through the station, take a moment to appreciate the history beneath your feet and the dedicated workers who made it all possible.