New Superloop Express Bus Route SL11 Launches as Interim Transport Solution for Thamesmead
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has officially launched the new Superloop SL11 bus route, describing it as a crucial interim transport solution for the Thamesmead area while awaiting the construction of a Docklands Light Railway extension. The limited-stop express service began operations on Saturday, January 23, 2026, connecting North Greenwich and Abbey Wood via Thamesmead and Woolwich.
Addressing Outer London Transport Gaps
Speaking to reporters during the inaugural SL11 journey, Mayor Khan emphasised the route's role in improving public transport connectivity in underserved outer London areas. "We know, particularly in outer London, there needs to be improved public transport," Khan stated, acknowledging that major rail projects like the Elizabeth Line and Northern Line extension take significant time to complete.
The Mayor explained the strategic thinking behind the Superloop expansion: "I know having launched the Elizabeth line and the Northern line extension, they'll take some time to be built, so we don't want to wait for those train extensions. We're going to carry on expanding the Superloop express bus."
Thamesmead's Transport Context and Development
Thamesmead represents one of London's most significant ongoing redevelopment projects, with plans for approximately 15,000 new homes in the area. The location gained national recognition last October when the government designated it as one of twelve 'New Towns' across the country to help meet nationwide housebuilding targets.
Just one month later, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced government support for a £1.7 billion project to extend the DLR from Gallions Reach in Newham to Thamesmead. However, this rail extension is not expected to be operational until the early 2030s, creating an immediate need for improved transport infrastructure.
With the addition of the SL11, Thamesmead now benefits from two Superloop routes, significantly enhancing public transport options for residents and workers in the area during this interim period.
Superloop Network Expansion and Service Details
The launch of the SL11 extends the total length of the Superloop bus network to 218 kilometres, marking another milestone in London's express bus network development. The route replaces the previous 472 service but operates as a limited-stop express with improved frequency.
Service details include:
- Operating every six minutes between 7am and 9pm from Monday to Saturday
- Running every 10 to 12 minutes at other times
- Providing service every 15 minutes on Sunday mornings
The overnight N472 service will continue to operate, serving all stops on the former 472 route, including those not covered by the express SL11.
Future Superloop Expansion Plans
Mayor Khan confirmed ongoing plans for further Superloop expansion, mentioning two additional routes currently under consideration:
- The SL12 between Gants Hill and Rainham
- The SL13 between Hendon and Ealing Broadway
These planned expansions demonstrate Transport for London's commitment to extending express bus services across outer London boroughs where rail connections remain limited.
Free Fare Trial Considerations
The Mayor addressed questions about potential fare arrangements, noting that all Superloop routes typically offer free travel during their first week of operation before returning to the standard £1.75 bus fare. However, he highlighted the unique case of the SL4 route, which has operated with free fares for a full year as part of the Silvertown Tunnel opening scheme.
"One of the reasons we were keen to get the SL4 going was it was a new bus service, Silvertown Tunnel was new," Khan explained. "So let's wait and see what the analysis tells us in relation to that."
The Mayor revealed that TfL would review usage data before making decisions about extending free fare periods on specific routes, noting that the Superloop network has demonstrated strong performance with 11% higher usage than the average across London's bus network.
This strategic approach to fare policy reflects TfL's balanced consideration of encouraging public transport use while maintaining sustainable operational funding for the expanding Superloop network.
