Councillors meet to discuss ‘critical’ DLR extension

The Minister for London met with councillors to discuss proposals for an extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) on May 11.

Minister for London, Paul Scully, visited Greenwich to hear about proposals for an extension of the DLR to Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead.

Councillors from Greenwich and Newham councils as well as representatives from Transport for London (TfL) welcomed the minister to a development site in Thamesmead to talk about the proposed extension which will help bring forward 25,000 new homes on both sides of the River Thames.

Leader of Greenwich council, councillor Anthony Okereke, said: “Thamesmead is an ambitious, growing community and DLR would transform the area, just like the Elizabeth line has done for Woolwich and Abbey Wood. 

“Thamesmead is the only postcode area without access to direct train connections to London, and that limits its potential for growth. 

“This project is a vital part of our ongoing efforts to improve connectivity in the area, and make much needed new housing and jobs accessible to our residents.”

The proposal extends the DLR train network from Gallions Reach to new stations at Beckton Riverside in Newham and Thamesmead in Greenwich.

The project also includes a new bus transit route that would connect Thamesmead to the Elizabeth line at Woolwich and Abbey Wood, offering an efficient and attractive journey.

The two councils, TfL, the Greater London Authority (GLA), Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and local landowners are working together to campaign for the proposals. 

The partnership, known as the Thamesmead and Beckton Riverside Public Transport Delivery Board, are asking for the government to help support work on feasibility studies and development of  the proposals.

Pictured top: Minister for London, Paul Scully, with councillors from Greenwich and TfL representatives (Picture: Paul Scully MP)