Crossrail is a step closer to opening after beginning safety trials. The £19bn London rail link, also know as the Elizabeth line, has been plagued by delays and is expected to open four years behind schedule. The service will run from Reading and Heathrow in the west, through 26 miles of new tunnels under London to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east. When it opens, the Elizabeth line will cut the journey time from Heathrow to central London.