The extension of the Bakerloo line has moved closer after a new Transport for London (TfL) consultation was released which details the proposed new station locations and route map.
The Bakerloo line extension, to Lewisham via Old Kent Road and New Cross Gate from Elephant & Castle will support growth in south east London through new housing, improved connectivity, increased transport network capacity and reduced journey times to key destinations including the West End and Lewisham town centre.
Alex Williams, TfL's Acting Managing Director of Planning, said: “London continues to grow and we need to ensure transport has the capacity to accommodate this growth. The Bakerloo line extension plays an important part in these plans, improving connectivity for an area under-served by public transport where there is potential to support 25,000 new homes and 5,000 new jobs.”
Four new stations are being proposed along the route to boost connectivity and support regeneration. This includes two stations along Old Kent Road, one at New Cross Gate providing an interchange with London Overground and National Rail services, and one at Lewisham, providing an interchange with the DLR and National Rail services.
The proposals also set out the need to undertake further capacity upgrade works to the Bakerloo line station at Elephant & Castle.
Cllr Mark Williams, cabinet member for regeneration and new homes at Southwark, said: “We have big ambitions for the Old Kent Road regeneration, which will pull central London further south and help transform the length of this historic thoroughfare into a dynamic new high street bustling with new homes, including at least 35 per cent affordable homes, new shops and cafes, workspaces, parks and open spaces and safer networks for cyclists and pedestrians.
“A key part of this is the Bakerloo line extension, making this part of London more open and accessible and encouraging investment.”
TfL is planning to progress work towards an application for planning powers by 2020, with further public consultation expected in the future as more details about the proposals are developed. The updated plans alos bring the completion date of the extension forward by two years to 2028/29, to align with the timetable for the upgrade of the Bakerloo line.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “I'm delighted that we're pushing ahead with the Bakerloo line extension two years earlier than originally planned. It will provide substantial benefits for thousands of Londoners, providing a new direct route for commuters into the heart of central London and joining up key transport links across south London.”
The Mayor of London and TfL have stated they remain committed to delivering a second phase of the extension beyond Lewisham with work underway to build a case for a second phase.
