Major Expansion for London's Superloop Network
Transport for London (TfL) has revealed ambitious plans to introduce five new Superloop bus routes across the capital over the next few years. This significant expansion of the express bus network aims to dramatically improve transport links between London boroughs, particularly benefiting residents in outer areas who have historically faced longer journey times.
The Superloop initiative, first launched in 2023, represents TfL's commitment to creating faster, more reliable bus services that complement existing transport options. The announcement comes hot on the heels of the recently introduced Bakerloop service in southeast London, which connects Waterloo with Lewisham town centre.
Detailed Breakdown of New Express Routes
The SL11 will commence operation in early 2026, replacing the current 472 service between Greenwich and Abbey Wood. While largely following the existing route between North Greenwich and Abbey Wood via Thamesmead, the new express service will skip most of the 40 stops currently served, significantly reducing journey times. It will also provide a crucial connection with the SL3 in Abbey Wood, enabling passengers to travel easily to Woolwich, Charlton and North Greenwich.
The SL12, also arriving in 2026, will create a new direct link between Gants Hill and Rainham via Ilford and Romford. This route will offer a particularly valuable service for healthcare journeys, providing the first direct bus connection between George Hospital and Queen's Hospital, while also serving the Ferry Lane Industrial Estate.
The SL13 between Hendon War Memorial and Ealing Broadway is currently under consideration by TfL. Potential stops being evaluated include Hendon Central, Brent Cross Shopping Centre, Staples Corner, Ardley Close, Neasden Shopping Centre, Brentfield Road, Harrow Road and Hanger Lane Tube station, though the final route has not yet been confirmed.
The SL14 in north-east London has progressed further, with a public consultation closing on November 5. Current proposals suggest the route will operate between Stratford Bus Station and Chingford Hatch via Leyton, St James's Street and Blackhorse Road stations.
The SL15 connecting Clapham Junction to Eltham is also undergoing consultation. Potential stops under consideration include Tulse Hill, Forest Hill, Catford and Lewisham town centre, creating a new cross-south London express link.
Transforming Connectivity Across the Capital
This expansion of the Superloop network represents a significant investment in outer London's transport infrastructure. By providing faster connections between town centres and transport hubs, TfL aims to reduce reliance on cars and make public transport a more attractive option for longer journeys across the city.
The existing Superloop network already includes several popular routes: SL1 (North Finchley to Walthamstow Central), SL2 (Walthamstow Central to North Woolwich), SL3 (Thamesmead to Bromley North), SL5 (Bromley North to Croydon Town Centre), SL6 (West Croydon to Russell Square), SL7 (West Croydon to Heathrow Airport), SL8 (Uxbridge to White City), SL9 (Heathrow Airport to Harrow), SL10 (Harrow to North Finchley), and the recently launched Bakerloop (Elephant and Castle to Lewisham).
With these five new additions scheduled for 2026 and 2027, London's express bus network will soon reach more communities than ever before, potentially transforming how residents in Greenwich, Stratford, Chingford, Clapham Junction and numerous other locations travel around the capital.
