UK: Transport for London has begun further technical studies for a proposed extension of the Docklands Light Railway automated light metro from Gallions Reach to Beckton Riverside and across the River Thames to Thamesmead.
The move follows confirmation of the new Thamesmead & Abbey Wood Opportunity Area Planning Framework.
The studies will further develop proposals for the alignment and potential station locations, and consider the environmental impact and transport benefits. They will also support work on other transport options within the OAPF, including walking and cycling links and a segregated bus rapid transit corridor linking Woolwich and Abbey Wood via Thamesmead.
Arup and Atkins will provide TfL with design, engineering and environmental assessment support, and Aecom will support work on socio-economic factors.
The studies are being fully funded by external partners through a £1m agreement between the London boroughs of Newham and Greenwich, the Thamesmead Waterfront development joint venture of Peabody and Lendlease, Aberdeen Standard Investments and the St William joint venture of Berkeley Group and National Grid.
The Thamesmead DLR extension was included in TfL’s submission to the government’s Comprehensive Spending Review as it could support the construction of more than 25 000 homes as part of the regeneration of the area.
‘These schemes are critical for realising our aspirations for unlocking new housing and jobs on both sides of the river in east London and ultimately creating successful places to live and work’, said Deputy Mayor for Transport, Heidi Alexander on December 21. ’By taking a collaborative approach we will maximise the likelihood of making them a reality.’
The OAPF also investigated the potential for extending the London Overground from Barking Riverside across the River Thames to Abbey Wood. This was not identified as a preferred option, because it would cost significantly more to build and operate.
