The South London neighbourhood with ‘appalling’ transport links that desperately wants DLR
Residents hope the long-awaited rail link could finally fix the area’s transport problems
Thamesmead has waited decades for a reliable rail connection, and the proposed Docklands Light Railway (DLR) extension has become one of the area’s most anticipated developments. For many locals, it represents the first real chance to fix the long-standing transport issues that make travelling across South London so difficult.
Some residents say current links leave them cut off from the rest of the city. Malcolm Hearn, 63, said: “The DLR needs to be extended to Thamesmead because the transport links from South London across the river are just appalling.”
He added that getting around is unnecessarily difficult. Malcolm said: “Before the Elizabeth line in Abbey Wood, I would have to go right into Central London to get across the river… Unless I used the ferry, but no one wants to use the ferry.”
READ MORE ON THAMESMEAD: The ‘forgotten’ South London neighbourhood where ‘all the pubs are closing’
TfL are considering extending the DLR to Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead. This extension would improve transport connections and enable the construction of up to 25,000-30,000 new homes along the route.(Image: anyaivanova via Getty Images)
Others point to the Elizabeth line’s arrival in Abbey Wood as proof that transport improvements can make a huge difference. Juliet Olodu, 48, said: “The first time when they were talking about the Elizabeth line we were like, ‘what is this about?’ But now I enjoy using it because it makes transport very quick and easy.”
She said big transport changes can feel daunting but often pay off. Juliet added: “Sometimes changes can scare us, but most times, it surprises us in a positive way.”
For many, the DLR extension would cut the long walks or bus journeys needed just to reach the nearest train station. Jude, who has lived in Thamesmead for several years, said: “I’m happy with the train coming over because a lot of us have to travel as far as Abbey Wood or Woolwich Arsenal just to get the train.”
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Malcolm Hearn has lived in Thamesmead for most of his life and says so much has changed, not all the better(Image: MyLondon)
Younger residents also believe the extension could transform daily life in the area. Leo Sanzone, 20, said: “I think they should do it because we only have the Elizabeth line and the Thameslink.”
He added that a direct link would finally give Thamesmead the same connectivity other parts of London enjoy. Leo added: “No one in Thamesmead would have to travel out to travel anywhere else, so I think it’s a good idea.”
For now, Thamesmead continues to wait for a decision. However, residents agree that better transport could be the key to unlocking the area’s future.
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