Commuters and weekend travellers in London are being warned to plan ahead as a significant programme of engineering work will disrupt several key transport lines. The planned closures, scheduled for Saturday, November 22, and Sunday, November 23, 2025, will affect the Overground, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and Elizabeth line services.
Network Rail and Transport for London (TfL) have coordinated the maintenance and signal testing, which is set to cause the most significant disruption for passengers in East London. Boroughs including Havering, Tower Hamlets, and Newham will see multiple platform closures. Access to London City Airport will also be more challenging for holidaymakers due to the works.
London Overground Disruption
Two Overground lines will be partially shut. On Sunday, November 23, the Liberty line will have no service between Romford and Upminster. This closure is for Network Rail maintenance, and passengers are advised to use local bus routes.
Furthermore, the Mildmay line will be out of action for the entire weekend. From Saturday, November 22, to Sunday, November 23, there will be no service between Gospel Oak and both Richmond and Shepherd's Bush. Travellers can use Tube services or local and replacement bus services as alternatives.
Major DLR Suspensions
The DLR network faces extensive changes, primarily on Saturday. Signal testing and third-party works are the cause of multiple suspensions.
On Saturday, November 22, there will be no service between Stratford International and Woolwich Arsenal. For this route, use Jubilee line and Elizabeth line services. Rail replacement buses will operate between Canning Town, London City Airport, and King George V.
Also on Saturday, the route between Poplar and Beckton will be closed. Passengers should use local bus routes, with rail replacement buses running between Canary Wharf and Gallions Reach via Beckton.
A two-day closure will affect the stretch between Tower Gateway and Shadwell on both Saturday and Sunday. Tube or Windrush line services and local bus routes are the recommended alternatives.
Elizabeth Line Closures
Significant track work will impact the Elizabeth line on Sunday. The entire section between Liverpool Street's national rail platforms/Whitechapel and Shenfield will have no service.
Passengers are encouraged to use Tube, Mildmay line, or DLR services, alongside local bus routes. Rail replacement buses will also be available to bridge the gap.
Additionally, an early morning closure on Sunday will see no service between Paddington and Ealing Broadway until 7:45 AM. Tube services or local buses should be used during this time.
While rail replacement buses will operate in many affected areas, travellers are strongly advised to check their entire journey before setting out. Further disruption is already planned for the following weekend, making it essential to stay updated with the latest TfL travel news.