Plans to extend the DLR to Thamesmead, including an additional stop in Beckton, have been backed in the Chancellor’s Budget.
While Rachel Reeves stopped short of confirming the extension in her speech on 26 November, the full Budget document says the government “welcomes confirmation” the line will be extended.
However, the government doesn’t plan to foot the majority of the anticipated £1.6billion bill for the project, though it will contribute to costs ‘over the long term.’
The document said: “The government welcomes confirmation that London will deliver the DLR extension to Thamesmead, funded through Transport for London and Greater London Authority borrowing.
“The majority of the costs will be met by TfL (Transport for London) and GLA (Greater London Authority), with the government also contributing over the long term.
“The government will continue to work with London to finalise funding details and will continue to work with the GLA to look at options for innovative financing to support the delivery of infrastructure projects in the capital.”
The new line will deviate from the DLR’s Beckton route at Gallions Reach, making a stop at new station Beckton Riverside.
It will then cross the Thames via a tunnel before stopping at Thamesmead, where the extension will end for now. Construction on the extension is expected to start in 2028 and open in 2033.
It is hoped the extension will bring an influx of residents to Thamesmead, a modern residential area sitting on the border of the boroughs of Greenwich and Bexley. 25,000-30,000 new homes are expected to be created, while the construction will open up around 10,000 jobs.
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan said: “I’m pleased that we have managed to secure some important wins for London. This includes the commitment to extend the Docklands Light Railway to Thamesmead and new powers to London to raise a tourist levy.
“We will need to examine carefully the details in the Budget and discuss with the Treasury the full impact on our capital city.
“As mayor, I’ll always stand up for London, irrespective of which party is in government, as we continue to build a fairer, safer and more affordable London for everyone.”
Responding to the Budget, Cllr Claire Holland, Chair of London Councils, said: “London is a crucial part of the UK economic engine and we welcome the measures announced today that will help us boost growth in the capital and contribute to national prosperity.
“Government investment in transport infrastructure is essential for accelerating growth in London and supporting the delivery of new housing.
“We have consistently made the case for the DLR extension to Thamesmead, along with the Mayor of London and business leaders. We are pleased to see the Chancellor backing delivery of this vital project, which will help unlock thousands of new homes and jobs.”
