London Unveils Major Expansion Of Superloop Bus Routes

The London Transport system is set for significant changes as Mayor Sadiq Khan announces the expansion of the Superloop Express bus routes, effectively doubling the size of the current network. This expansion will introduce ten new services, including the innovative ‘Bakerloop’ which will follow the planned Bakerloo line extension, connecting Elephant and Castle to Lewisham.

Transportation for London (TfL) Commissioner Andy Lord expressed optimism about the launch of the first Superloop 2 route, anticipated before the end of 2025. This timeline is contingent upon completing necessary consultations with the public and stakeholders. Lord stated, “We’ll be doing [the consultation] shortly. I can’t give you any details at the minute, but we’re very excited about the next routes.” The original Superloop, which launched earlier with seven services, has been impactful, as it aimed to improve connections between various outer London town centers.

The first wave of implementation also included three additional routes, one of which is still pending activation pending the opening of the Silvertown Tunnel, expected to provide new avenues for the bus network. The SL4 route will connect Canary Wharf via the new tunnel to key areas such as Blackheath, Lee, and Grove Park railway stations.

During last year’s mayoral election, Khan’s campaign unveiled a draft map outlining potential routes for the next phase of the Superloop, now named Superloop 2. Among the new proposed routes are connections from Leytonstone to South Havering, Streatham to Eltham, and North Greenwich to Thamesmead. These routes are anticipated to enable smoother travel across the capital, particularly for those residing outside central London.

“The Superloop has seen a huge benefit... we’re really excited about what the next phase can deliver for the city,” Lord remarked, emphasizing the enthusiasm around the project. Enhancing the bus network is not just about numbers; it's about increasing awareness and usage of public transport, encouraging more residents to opt for buses as their primary mode of transport.

The full list of proposed routes for Superloop 2 includes:

Harrow to Barnet, via Edgware

Barnet to Stratford, via Enfield and Chingford

Leytonstone to South Havering, via Gants Hill and Romford

North Greenwich to Thamesmead, via Woolwich

‘Bakerloop line’: Elephant and Castle to Lewisham, via Old Kent Road and New Cross

Streatham to Eltham, via Tulse Hill and Lee

Richmond to Wimbledon, via Roehampton

Ealing Broadway to Kingston, via Great West Road and Richmond

Hounslow to Hammersmith, via Great West Road

Hendon to Ealing Broadway, via Brent Cross and Hanger Lane

The expansion of the Superloop serves not only as practical development but also as strategic urban planning, addressing the growing needs of the city’s residents. Its planners anticipate the new routes will alleviate congestion and provide greater access to employment areas, schools, and services.

With the Silvertown Tunnel set to open soon, the timeline for the rollout of new routes is expected to accelerate, offering residents quicker and more efficient paths across the sprawling metropolis. The sense of excitement surrounding this expansion is palpable, with many local leaders and community members eager for the improvements to their daily commutes.

When completed, London’s Superloop and the visions for Phase 2 are projected to transform public transportation, empowering communities across the capital and fostering stronger connections between its diverse districts. Time will tell how this ambitious plan develops, but the anticipation is certainly building among Londoners eager for enhanced bus services.