Transport for London (TfL) has announced a series of sweeping proposals that could see six of the capital's busiest bus routes axed, shortened, or significantly rerouted. The plans, which are now open for public consultation, come in response to a sustained drop in passenger numbers since the pandemic and aim to streamline a network with overlapping services.
Which Routes Are Under Threat?
The routes identified for potential major changes are spread across north, west, and central London. The affected services are the 259, 279, 349, 19, 424, and the 38. The latter two are among the city's most frequented routes, with the 38 holding the title of the 15th busiest bus in London.
TfL states the overhaul is necessary to 'improve reliability' and 'better match current demand and capacity.' A spokesperson emphasised the importance of public feedback, saying: 'Feedback is hugely important to us... This will help inform future decisions, and enable us to create bus services that benefit everyone.'
Detailed Breakdown of Proposed Changes
The plans for each route are specific and designed to reduce duplication. For the iconic route 19, immortalised in Dire Straits' 'Wild West End', TfL proposes cutting the section between Battersea and Hyde Park Corner. It would instead be extended to serve Victoria station. A new, separate route would cover the lost link to Battersea Bridge.
The high-frequency 38 route would see its western terminus moved from Victoria to Holborn, with Saturday services reduced from every six minutes to every ten minutes. TfL justifies this by citing a 'significant decrease in demand at Victoria and between Hackney and Essex Road.'
Other key changes include:
- Route 259: Would be restructured to run between Ponders End and Holloway's Nag's Head, severing the direct link to King's Cross.
- Route 349: Faces being axed completely due to significant overlap with other services.
- Route 279: Despite carrying 9.7 million passengers in 2024/25, it would be redirected away from Seven Sisters Road and terminate at Stamford Hill, removing a link to Manor House Tube station.
- Route 424: Would be rerouted away from congested Putney High Street, with a new, less frequent route (454) proposed to cover part of the old service.
Reaction and Concerns from Campaigners
The proposals have sparked concern among passenger groups and local politicians. Campaigners warn that altering local bus routes disrupts the daily routines of those who depend on them, particularly older and disabled Londoners.
Caroline Russell, Green Party leader on the London Assembly, said: 'The proposed reduction in service frequency is what concerns me most as longer waits could discourage people from using buses altogether.'
London TravelWatch, the passenger watchdog, urged TfL to minimise the need for passengers to change buses, especially at night, and to ensure savings are reinvested into the network where demand is growing. The public consultation for routes 19 and 38 is open until 23 January, with other consultations to follow.
