Chancellor Rachel Reeves is poised to officially approve funding for the long-awaited Docklands Light Railway extension to Thamesmead in an upcoming Budget announcement.
Major Transport Boost for London
The significant infrastructure project represents the first expansion of London's train network since the Overground reached Barking Riverside in July 2022. The development promises to generate approximately 10,000 new jobs while facilitating the construction of up to 30,000 desperately needed homes in the capital.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has consistently championed the scheme alongside business leaders and local communities, welcomed the government's decision as a massive vote of confidence in London.
Transforming Travel in East London
The proposed extension will create a branch line from the existing DLR Beckton route, diverging at Gallions Reach via a new spur. Plans include constructing a new station called Beckton Riverside before trains travel through a tunnel beneath the River Thames to reach Thamesmead.
Transport for London's initial consultation in early 2024 received over 1,000 responses, with most participants expressing support for the project.
Journey Time Improvements
According to TfL estimates, the extended DLR will dramatically reduce travel times for Thamesmead residents:
- Journeys to Stratford cut to 25-30 minutes
- Travel to Canary Wharf reduced to 20-25 minutes
- Trips to Liverpool Street taking just 35-40 minutes
The Thamesmead extension has ranked among the highest priority infrastructure projects for Mayor Khan and Transport for London, who have been actively seeking government funding alongside other ambitious schemes including the Bakerloo line southern extension and Crossrail Two.
