Commuters face travel disruption when parts of the Croydon tram system are closed for upgrades near Wimbledon.

Transport for London (TfL) said the vital work would start on Monday (April 4) and cause major problems.

Work will take place between Wimbledon and Therapia Lane tram stops until Wednesday, April 13.

This means no services will run on the 18 minute stretch of the network.

An update from TfL reads: “This work will see approximately 700 metres of track repaired to ensure tram reliability is maintained and make sure our customers enjoy the best ride quality possible.”

During this time trams will continue to run from Therapia Lane to Croydon town centre, Beckenham Junction to Elmers End and New Addington to West Croydon.

A replacement bus service will run from Wimbledon to Waddon Marsh, calling at Morden Road, Belgrave Walk then all stops via Therapia Lane. But tram users are urged to find an alternative route as journey times will be considerably longer.

TfL added: “Work will be taking place 24 hours a day to ensure customer disruption is kept to the absolute minimum. TfL will also use this opportunity to undertake a number of other tasks to reduce the need and frequency of future closures.  These include platform painting and paving, drainage works, fencing repairs and vegetation removal.”

Information about the disruption has been advertised through posters at tram stops and customers should have received emails about the works.

It comes less than two months after a week-long closure between Wandle Park and East Croydon in the February half term. This was so TfL could replace 100 metres of tram track at Reeves Corner and resurface part of the road.

Should customers need further information about the latest closure they can contact TfL customer services on 0343 222 1234 or visit the tram shop near East Croydon station.