TfL proposes DLR extension under the Thames

The proposed extension would link Gallions Reach in east London to Thamesmead in south-east London, via Beckton Riverside, as part of plans for new transport links, homes and regeneration. Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside are the heart of London’s major growth areas and are a priority for regeneration and economic development.

TfL is working with the Royal Borough of Greenwich, London Borough of Newham and three landowners – Thamesmead Waterfront (a Peabody and Lendlease joint venture), abrdn (formerly Aberdeen Standard Investments) and St William (a Berkeley Group company) – to develop the plans. TfL says there has been continuous engagement with Homes England, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Department for Transport.

The DLR extension to Thamesmead would build on experience from 2009 when the network was extended to Woolwich Arsenal, including tunnelling under the Thames.

TfL says providing the infrastructure for London’s growth was vital to ensure viable alternatives to cars, helping Londoners to access public transport and preventing congestion which could have a negative impact on air quality, public health and economic performance. Investment to support growth and regeneration is one of TfL’s capital investment priorities, alongside asset and rolling stock renewals and upgrades, decarbonisation and mitigating the delays to HS2.

While a key part of this work will be to identify options for maximising local and regional funding, as well as driving cost and creating efficiencies, the scale of the projects mean some government support will be required.

To date, funding for the feasibility work has been provided by private and public sector bodies with an interest in regenerating the area. The SOC reflects this work and the scale of opportunity at Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside. To support the further feasibility work and build a strong business case, the partnership has committed to further funding contributions, alongside requesting further government funding.

A further £6m is being raised by TfL and the Greater London Authority (GLA) as well as other partners.

The aim is to agree an affordable solution by 2025 so construction can begin in 2028 and the DLR extension open in the early 2030s.