A strategic outline case (SOC) outlining plans to extend the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) in London has been submitted. The plan which seeks to extend the rail from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead was submitted to the government by Transport for London (TfL).
The proposal is part of the Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside Public Transport Programme that aims to unlock opportunities for enhanced connectivity. The programme explores two key transport improvements. The first is the extension of the DLR from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead via Beckton Riverside. This entails constructing a new DLR station at Beckton Riverside, with a tunnel beneath the River Thames connecting to another new station at Thamesmead.
The second improvement involves a dedicated Bus Transit scheme, providing reliable and frequent connections from Woolwich to Abbey Wood via Thamesmead. This also aims to enhance local connectivity and capacity. It will also offer access to the Elizabeth line and DLR services through bus priority measures and upgrades to bus stops and surrounding areas.
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Collaboration with Local Partners and Regeneration Initiatives to the Extend Docklands Light Railway
TfL is collaborating with local partners to actualize this project. The partners include the Royal Borough of Greenwich, London Borough of Newham, and Thamesmead Waterfront (a joint venture between Peabody and Lendlease). Abrdn (formerly Aberdeen Standard Investments) and St William (a Berkeley Group company are also a part of the team. Engagements with Homes England, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and the Department for Transport are also ongoing.
Building upon the success of the DLR extension to Woolwich Arsenal in 2009, which led to housing growth in various areas, the extension to Thamesmead aims to accommodate significant population and job growth in London by 2041. Infrastructure provision supports sustainable transportation alternatives, mitigates congestion, and positively impacts air quality, public health, and economic performance.
Private and public sector bodies interested in the area’s regeneration have contributed funding for feasibility work. The partnership has committed to additional funding contributions to support further feasibility work and seeks additional government support. TfL, the Greater London Authority, and other partners are raising £6 million for the project. The goal is to finalise an affordable solution by 2025, allowing construction to commence by 2028 and the DLR extension to open to the public in the early 2030s.
