Public backs plans to extend DLR to Thamesmead as project moves a step closer

Plans to bring the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Thamesmead have received strong public support, as Transport for London (TfL) moves forward with proposals for a new rail link beneath the River Thames.

The long-awaited extension would give Thamesmead its first direct rail connection, linking the area with Beckton Riverside and the wider DLR network.

TfL has revealed the results of its latest public consultation, which attracted 553 responses from residents and organisations between June and July this year.

The feedback showed continued strong support for the scheme, with respondents welcoming the prospect of improved transport connections, shorter journeys and better access to jobs, education and services.

What would the extension mean for Thamesmead?

Under the proposals, the DLR would branch off from the existing line at Gallions Reach, serving a new station at Beckton Riverside before travelling through a tunnel beneath the Thames to a new station at Thamesmead Waterfront.

The Thamesmead station is proposed for the site of Cannon Retail Park, close to Central Way, as part of wider plans to regenerate the waterfront and create a new town centre.

For residents in Thamesmead, who currently rely heavily on buses to reach nearby railway stations, the extension could make travelling across London considerably easier.

TfL has previously estimated that the new connection could provide journeys of around 25 minutes to Stratford, 30 minutes to London Bridge and 35 minutes to Tottenham Court Road.

The wider project could also support the delivery of up to 30,000 new homes and 10,000 jobs across Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside.

Residents raise concerns over construction and connections

Although the consultation found strong backing for the proposals, residents also raised questions about how the railway would be built and its impact on surrounding communities.

Concerns included construction noise, increased traffic and potential environmental effects.

Respondents also highlighted the importance of making the new stations fully accessible, providing safe walking and cycling routes, and ensuring good connections with existing bus services.

Some also called for the railway to be designed with the possibility of extending the DLR beyond Thamesmead in the future.

This could be particularly relevant to neighbouring communities in the London Borough of Bexley, where there have previously been calls for the DLR to continue towards Belvedere.

However, no further extension beyond Thamesmead forms part of the current scheme.

‘Residents have waited far too long’

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, welcomed the consultation results.

“It is encouraging to see strong support for bringing the DLR to Thamesmead, something I have campaigned for since I was first elected. Residents have waited far too long for the connections they deserve.”

She added that the extension could make everyday journeys easier and improve access to jobs, education and housing.

Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, described the proposed new station as a “game changer” for Thamesmead.

He said the scheme would help unlock the area’s potential, supporting thousands of new homes alongside a thriving town centre and stronger local economy.

When could the DLR reach Thamesmead?

Despite the positive consultation results, the extension has not yet received final approval.

TfL is now reviewing the feedback and refining its proposals before submitting a Transport and Works Act Order application in 2027, which would seek the legal powers needed to build and operate the railway.

The project also remains dependent on final funding arrangements and the necessary approvals.

Previous TfL plans have suggested construction could begin in 2029, with the first trains potentially running in the early 2030s.

For Thamesmead residents, the latest announcement marks another step towards securing a rail connection that has been discussed for many years.

Further information and the consultation findings are available on the TfL website⁠.