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Alastair Carr
[Click here for the full-sized map]
It feels like we’ve been discussing the arrival of Crossrail for years, but the wait is almost over. The central section of the Elizabeth line, from Abbey Wood to Paddington, will open in December this year, with more branches being added in 2019. It comes complete with full air-conditioning, free wifi and access to 4G onboard, and it’s safe to say we’re pumped for this transformative (and plush) addition to London life.
But really, Crossrail is just the beginning. Much to the joy of the capital’s transport nerds, researcher Alastair Carr has created a map to depict London's transport system in 2040 – provided Sadiq Khan’s latest whizzy transport strategy goes to plan. Peer into Alastair’s cartographical crystal ball and you’ll see the Bakerloo line extending to Beckenham Junction and Hayes, the Northern line splitting off to Battersea Power Station, the Piccadilly line replacing the District line to Ealing Broadway, the DLR travelling out to Thamesmead, the Overground spreading to Barking Riverside and Thamesmead and the West London Orbital heading out to Hounslow and Neasden. Phew.
As for the new kids on the block, after Crossrail 1 comes Crossrail 2 (add your own blockbuster-style tagline) and the Sutton Tramlink. But don’t panic: this brave new world isn’t scheduled for another 22 years – which gives you plenty of time to scope out the new property hotspots and start saving for your dream crib. Hello, Shepperton!
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