TfL DLR extension: Two new stations part of consultation launched

Transport for London (TfL) has launched a consultation on plans to extend the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead.

Under the plans a new DLR station would be built at Beckton Riverside, with a tunnel built under the River Thames linked to another new DLR station at Thamesmead.

TfL says the extension would unlock the delivery of up to 25,000 to 30,000 new homes along the extended route and create 10,000 new jobs.

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, 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.”

Thamesmead, built on former marshland on the south bank of the River Thames in south east London, is currently unserved by Tube, DLR, Overground and National Rail services. The nearest stations are currently Abbey Wood, Plumstead and Belvedere.

TfL and its partners submitted a Strategic Outline Case (SOC) to the government in 2023 outlining how an extension of the DLR could have a transformative effect on the area.

Funding for the feasibility work has been provided to date by a partnership of private and public sector bodies.

TfL says the aim is to agree on an affordable solution by 2025, in order to enable construction to begin as early as 2028 and opening the DLR extension to customers in the early 2030s.

Alex Williams, chief customer and strategy officer, said: “Extending the DLR from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead via Beckton Riverside presents a crucial opportunity to boost connectivity by linking two major growth areas with two new accessible stations.

“This important public consultation will ensure we can get feedback from those who may benefit from the extension in future to help shape the scheme as we progress through to the next stages of planning.”

TfL says it explored a number of other transport options including increasing the number and frequency of bus services in Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside, without a new rail service. 

The transport body said it concluded that that option alone would not provide the level of connectivity or capacity needed to enable the 25,000 to 30,000 planned new homes in the area.

The consultation is open from February 5 to March 8. You can have your say via the consultation website.