New Superloop SL14 Bus Route Gets Green Light for East London Launch
Transport for London has officially confirmed the launch of a new Superloop bus route, the SL14, set to begin operations in 2027 following overwhelming public support. The limited-stop express service will significantly enhance transport connectivity across North East London, linking Stratford with Chingford Hatch via key stops including Leyton, St James's Street, and Blackhorse Road stations.
Strong Public Backing Drives Approval
According to TfL's recent consultation, an impressive 83 percent of respondents indicated that the SL14 route would offer greater convenience, while 81 percent believed it would reduce current journey times. This positive feedback has paved the way for the project's advancement, with preparatory work already underway to ensure a smooth rollout.
Geoff Hobbs, TfL's director of public transport service planning, stated: "We welcome the positive response to the consultation of the new SL14 express route. This service will play an important role in improving connections and reducing journey times across east and northeast London. Work has now begun to prepare the SL14 for operation, with the goal of introducing the service in 2027."
Route Details and Operational Adjustments
The SL14 will operate as a faster, express alternative to existing services, designed to serve areas with previously limited transport options. As part of the implementation, the D8 bus route will be rerouted from its junction with Stratford High Street and Warton Road to start and end at Stratford City Bus station, optimizing network efficiency.
Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, emphasized the route's significance: "The Mayor and I are pleased to see TfL pressing ahead with plans to launch a new SL14 express bus route next year, following strong public backing. This new route will improve bus services and journey times for Londoners across east and northeast London, building on the success of the Mayor's game-changing Superloop."
Community Feedback and Considerations
While the SL14 has received widespread support from residents in North East London, some community members raised questions about the route not extending further to Chingford station. They argued that Chingford Hatch lacks robust transport links, whereas Chingford station offers a direct interchange with the Weaver line.
TfL addressed these concerns by explaining that extending the route would require additional buses and could not terminate at Chingford station without altering other local routes, such as the existing 97 service that already connects Stratford and Chingford.
Expansion of the Superloop Network
The Superloop network, initially launched in 2023 to bolster public transport in Outer London's underserved areas, continues to expand. Recent additions include the SL11 route between North Greenwich and Abbey Wood via Thamesmead, launched in January, and the SL12 between Gants Hill and Rainham, set to debut later this year.
Consultations for other proposed routes, such as the SL13 linking Ealing Broadway and Hendon, and the SL15 between Clapham Junction and Eltham, have concluded, with TfL expected to announce outcomes shortly. This ongoing expansion reflects a broader effort to create a more equitable and sustainable transport system for London.
