TFL cuts access for app developers

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Transport for London (TfL) has cut access to its transport departure data from app developers after the high volume of requests crashed the system.

The Government body, responsible for transport networks across the capital, only opened up the data to third-party developers on 15 June. However, an unprecedented number of people - 10 million a week - asked for access, leading to the London Datastore gateway overloading.

Steve Townsend, director of information management for London Underground, said: “We are really encouraged that the feed to our Tube departure information is so popular and TfL is doing everything to restore it as soon as possible but this may take some time."

He added: "We’re sorry for the temporary disruption to this API Beta feed and we will provide an update as soon as we have further information.”

Data made available by TfL included train departure times, traffic cameras and the best places to buy an Oyster card. The organisation was also gearing up to add in bus timetables and routes.

However, the server crashes have left the system unworkable and developers will not by allowed access until a redesign is created.

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