Transport for London examines Thamesmead extension for DLR

London has launched a consultation into proposals to extend the Docklands Light Railway to Thamesmead, in connection with the regeneration of the communities around Beckton and Thamesmead.

Under the proposal, the preferred route for the extension would diverge from the existing DLR route near to Gallions Reach DLR station, continuing on to a new station at Beckton Riverside, and then running through a tunnel built beneath the River Thames to another new DLR station at Thamesmead.

TFL has been working on the plan alongside the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the London Borough of Newham, and the Greater London Authority, as well as landowners Peabody, Lendlease, abrdn, St William (Berkeley Homes) and Homes England to support the development of new homes, improved town centres, and better access to jobs within and from Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead DLR stations. It is planned that more than 25,000 new homes will be built within the area over the coming years, with a sustainable public transport system a key aim of the project. A Strategic Outline Case was submitted to the Government by TFL last year, outlining how an extension of the DLR could have a transformative effect on the area. While the various parties involved are working to identify options for maximising local and regional funding sources, the scale of the project means that some external support will be required. Funding for the feasibility work has been provided by a partnership of private and public sector bodies with an interest in regenerating the area.the aim is to agree an affordable solution by 2025 to enable construction to begin in 2028, and for the DLR extension to be opened to passengers in the early 2030s.

Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “I’m excited for TFL to launch this consultation – extending the DLR will unlock huge opportunities for London, support tens of thousands of new homes, deliver new transport connections, and boost the economy, supporting the creation of thousands of jobs. Enabling the infrastructure needed for the capital’s growth is key to building a better, more prosperous London for everyone.” The leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Coun Anthony Okereke, said: “The DLR extension is central to the regeneration of Thamesmead and would transform the area, just like the Elizabeth line has done for Woolwich and Abbey Wood. We remain committed as part of Our Greenwich mission to make it easier, safer, and greener for residents to move around the borough and the rest of London. “High-quality public transport is essential to our local economy; this extension would support thousands of jobs and the delivery of up to 15,000 new homes in Thamesmead. We encourage residents and businesses to participate in the consultation and share their feedback on the proposals.” The consultation into the proposed extension runs until March 18 and public feedback will be used to make decisions about the scheme, designs, and the next steps. The next stage in the process after public consultation will be progressing the scheme towards an Outline Business Case. Construction costs for the extension are currently unfunded.