TfL updates plans for Bakerloo Line extension following public consultation
The public strongly supports an extension of the Bakerloo Line beyond Elephant & Castle, Transport for London (TfL) has said, and could be completed by 2029.
TfL says the Bakerloo Line extension, supported by the line upgrade that will increase the frequency of trains, will support at least 25,000 new homes and 5,000 new jobs and reduce overcrowding for National Rail services.
TfL has published it response to last year's consultation on proposals to extend the Bakerloo Line to Lewisham and Hayes. It received more than 4,800 responses but a more detailed consultation is set for 2019.
TfL has outlined a number of proposals for the stations affected – Elephant & Castle, Old Kent Road, New Cross Gate and Lewisham. It said it had dropped plans to build a new station at the Bricklayers Arms roundabout because it was too costly and could increase journey times.
At Elephant & Castle, TfL wants to see the Bakerloo Line station and ticket hall move and integrate with the planned new Northern Line ticket hall to make it easier to switch lines and reduce crowding.
Heidi Alexander, deputy mayor for Transport, said: “I’m delighted that plans for the Bakerloo line extension are continuing to progress. New Tube stations providing a direct route for commuters into the heart of central London and the joining up of key transport links across south London will reduce journey times and ease congestion, making a huge difference to the lives of thousands of south Londoners.
“The extension will also provide a substantial boost to the local economy, helping support up to 5,000 new jobs and 25,000 new homes.”
Alex Williams, Transport for London’s director of city planning, said: “The Bakerloo line extension is vital to support the growth of south east London as well as improving connectivity and reducing journey times for tens of thousands of people. We have taken on board the views of almost 5,000 people and will now refine the proposals and carry out a further public consultation next year. This will help us shape our plans for the first phase of the extension to Lewisham which is planned to be completed by 2029.”