TfL Unveils Major Transport Upgrades for London in 2026
Transport for London (TfL) has detailed a comprehensive series of upgrades set to commence or progress in 2026, as part of a five-year plan extending to 2030. With a total investment of £2.2 billion allocated by April 2030, the initiative focuses on modernising ageing train fleets across key Underground lines and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), while advancing other critical projects.
Bakerloo Line: A Long-Awaited Fleet Replacement
The most significant announcement from Mayor Sadiq Khan's transport business plan is the replacement of the Bakerloo line's 54-year-old train fleet, which surpassed its intended lifespan in 2008. Expenditure outlines indicate that work will begin this year, with investment escalating to £348 million in 2028 and peaking at £456 million in 2029/2030. The entire fleet is expected to be renewed by 2030, marking a crucial step in enhancing reliability and passenger experience.
Piccadilly Line: New Trains with Enhanced Features
Following testing delays, TfL anticipates introducing 94 new Piccadilly line trains in the second half of 2026. These trains, described as the most complex ever for the Tube network, will feature real-time displays, wider doorways, and a 10 per cent increase in capacity compared to the 1970s fleet. Siemens, the manufacturer, has confirmed these improvements, addressing the line's challenges as one of the longest and deepest on the network.
DLR: Fleet Renewal and Extension Plans
The DLR will see a rollout of 54 new trains by the end of 2026, although a temporary withdrawal in late 2025 due to braking issues in wet weather has delayed full implementation. Concurrently, the £1.6 billion DLR extension from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead, approved by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, is scheduled to start in 2028 and complete by 2033, with TfL recently issuing tenders to outline the project's scope.
Central Line and Elizabeth Line Progress
The Central Line Improvement Programme (CLIP) is back on track after setbacks, with four refurbished trains already in service and more expected by March 2026. TfL aims to complete the refurbishment of the entire fleet by 2029. Meanwhile, the Elizabeth line will welcome its first batch of 10 new Class 345 Aventra trains in 2026, built in Derby, with the remainder to follow in 2027, bolstering capacity ahead of the HS2 Old Oak Common station opening.
Additional Upgrades and Omissions
Other projects include improvements to South London's tram fleet, with 24 new trams planned by 2030 and potential for full replacement. Notably, the plan excludes the Bakerloo line extension and West London Orbital conversion, which were not funded in the recent government budget, highlighting ongoing challenges in securing support for larger-scale initiatives.
Overall, TfL's 2026 upgrades represent a significant investment in London's transport infrastructure, aiming to enhance efficiency, capacity, and passenger comfort across multiple lines.
