There is "strong support" for the DLR to be extended to Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead, according to the results of a public consultation.
More than 550 people and organisations responded to TfL's plans in a consultation which ran in June and July 2026, many giving positive feedback on the improved transport links and better access to jobs which the extension would bring.
The planned extension would see two brand new stations built, as well as a new tunnel under the Thames, and would increase connectivity to Thamesmead, an area which has long been under-served by public transport options.
The recent consultation specifically focused on designs for the new stations, with many respondents highlighting the importance of accessibility, safe walking and cycling routes, good bus connections and potential future DLR extensions beyond Thamesmead.
Some respondents also highlight concerns around issues including the traffic, noise and environmental effects of construction.
So what next? The extension is still a few years away: construction could begin in 2029, with a projected opening date of early 2030s (though these things have a tendency to get delayed). The next step will see the plans refined based on the feedback received during the consultation.
Alex Williams, TfL’s Chief Customer and Strategy Officer, said:
The responses we received show continued strong support for the scheme and recognise the important role it could play in improving public transport connections, supporting new homes and jobs, and unlocking growth on both sides of the River Thames. We have carefully considered the feedback received and will use it to help develop the proposals further as we continue working towards submitting an application for permission to build and operate the scheme.
TfL intends to submit a Transport and Works Act Order application in 2027, and will continue working with partners including the Mayor of London, the Royal Borough of Greenwich and the London Borough of Newham to get the project off the ground.
The full results of the 2026 public consultation can be viewed online. And in other DLR glow-up news: its shiny new trains were finally put back into service in September 2026, after being pulled just a few weeks post-launch in autumn 2025 due to an issue with the brakes.
