Tom Anderson wrote in uk.transport.london on Tue, 2 Oct 2007 00:01:47
+0100 .li:

http://www.londontravelwatch.org.uk/document/2940/get
[snip perverse desire for exorcism of 313s]
"An issue not covered in the RUS is that of high demand, and therefore of
crowding issues, when fixtures are held at Arsenals new Emirates stadium."

"The present situation is that Drayton Park station one of the closest to
the stadium is closed when most events take place."

"Historically this is because of the restricted operating hours of the
Moorgate line. It would obviously be beneficial for the line to be opened
at these times, but First Capital Connect have made it clear that even if
the line were open they would keep Drayton Park closed because its narrow
island platform and booking hall access could not cope with the expected
crowds.

Which excuse is, patently, unmitigated bollox. There's a large paved
area outside the station at street level which would be ideal for
queuing, as happens at every other station near a football/other large
capacity venue, and as used to happen at Gillespie Road.

The difference is, I think. more to do with the fact that pretty well
everywhere else it is LU who provide the staff for crowd/barrier
control, whereas this would eat into FCC's profits.

--
hike
- a walking tour or outing, esp. of the self-conscious kind
Chambers 20th Century Dictionary