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It’s been donkey’s years since TfL first teased Londoners about a potential extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to southeast London. Plans were first floated all the way back in 2010, and since then London Mayor Sadiq Khan has been drip feeding transport-deprived southeast Londoners morsels of commute-related hope.
It was originally hoped that extension plans could be complete by 2026, which was then pushed back to 2028, and in August 2025 it was announced the extension could go even further than originally thought. Now we know that the billion pound extension is finally officially a-go. Here’s the latest.
Where will the DLR extension go to?
The DLR will be extended east past its current end-point of Gallions Reach to Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead, with two new stations built.
When will it be complete?
TfL has put out a tender for the contract to work on the extension. The tender says work on the project should start in 2028 and be completed by 2033.
How much will the DLR extension cost?
The total cost for the seven-year project is expected to be £1.62 billion. The Greater London Authority (GLA) and TfL will borrow the vast majority of the money needed for the extension, with government financial support for the scheme still unknown.
What’s happening with the new DLR trains?
New B23 DLR trains started to be introduced on the service last September. However, TfL has since temporarily withdrawn them due to precautions over a faulty braking system.
They’re expected to be back on the tracks by the end of 2026.
Don’t forget: London’s busiest train station will have major closures for an entire month.
Plus: Elizabeth line services are being increased at three west London stations.
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