Everything you need to know about DLR extension to Thamesmead

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has backed an extension of the line from Gallions Reach, which if built would stop at both Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead.

Although full funding for the project is yet to be secured, TfL has revealed details about the potential route as part of an ongoing consultation.

Here is everything you need to know about what might soon be London’s biggest new infrastructure project.

Where would the extension go?

The line would branch off from the existing DLR route to Beckton after Gallions Reach, with trains travelling over a viaduct to Armada Way, where a new station at Beckton Riverside would be built.

Trains would then descend into a tunnel under the River Thames before rising onto another viaduct in south London at Thamesmead.

A DLR station for the town will be built at the site of Cannon Retail Park.

Although only two new stops are currently planned, TfL has said there is the potential for a further extension towards Bexley in the future.

Why is the extension needed?

TfL says that the project supports the creation of up to 30,000 new homes.

Greenwich Council has also said that building the extension is the “key in unlocking land” earmarked for redevelopment in Thamesmead.

This would allow around 15,000 new homes to be built on a 100-hectare site to the west of the town’s existing retail park on the southern bank of the Thames.

When will trains start running?

Transport bosses say that they hope that a funding plan for the project can be agreed with the Government by autumn this year.

If funding is secured, work could start on building the extension in spring 2028, allowing trains to start operating from late 2031 or early 2032.

The project is expected to cost at least £1.5 billion.

How often would trains come?

According to TfL, trains would run on the new branch every eight to ten minutes, with a similar service pattern on the spur to Beckton.

This would mean a train would come every four to five minutes on the core section of the route between Canning Town and Gallions Reach.

How can I have my say?

A TfL consultation on the proposals is currently under way – although there are only three weeks until it closes. You can give feedback until Sunday August 17.