Transport for London (TfL) has secured “strong support” for what it describes as a potentially “game changing” extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) further into east London. The proposed route would link Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead via a tunnel beneath the Thames.
Economic growth and first rail link for Thamesmead
According to TfL, the project could deliver as much as £15.6 billion in economic growth. Respondents to the public consultation highlighted improved public transport links, regeneration opportunities, and access to jobs and education as key benefits. The extension would provide Thamesmead with its first rail connection, and TfL hopes the scheme could unlock some of London’s most important regeneration corridors.
The £1.5 billion scheme, which saw its costs revised upwards earlier this year, will be funded through loans taken out by the Greater London Authority (GLA) and by TfL against future fares income. If approved, construction would begin in 2029.
Journey times and regeneration potential
The proposed line could reduce journey times to central London to around 30 minutes and unlock approximately 145 hectares of brownfield land for development. The consultation, which ran from June 5 to July 16, sought views on station design, construction plans, and the potential impact on local communities. Accessibility, walking routes, and cycle routes were all raised by respondents as important considerations.
However, the consultation also identified concerns, including traffic, noise, construction impacts, and environmental effects. TfL said it would continue to address these issues as the scheme develops.
Consultation responses and political backing
Of the 553 responses received, 527 came from members of the public and 26 from stakeholder organisations. Some 227 comments were in favour of the proposal.
Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, said: “It’s great that we have reached the next milestone of this vital project, following the Government’s backing of our plans in last year’s budget. This scheme has the potential to transform travel in a part of the capital that has historically lacked the public transport connections it needs.”
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “A new DLR station would be a game changer for Thamesmead, giving residents better connection to jobs, education, and opportunities across London.”
