DLR western extension

An extremely early proposal for a DLR extension westwards from Bank (potentially to Charing Cross) has been floated.

DLR carried out a study in 2005 called "Horizons 2020" to look at possible extensions beyond those already envisaged (Woolwich, Stratford International and Dagenham Dock).

Although no details have yet been published, industry sources (e.g. Modern Railways) have indicated that the most promising options included a southward extension from Lewisham and a westward extension from the Bank branch.

Several destinations are possible from Bank; Liverpool Street, Moorgate and Charing Cross have been mentioned [source: London Travelwatch, 16 May 06]. Modern Railways believed that the Charing Cross option was preferred, and this is explained below. However, a decision was not due until September 2006.

The westward destination would be Charing Cross. Speculatively, this might follow the original plans for a Jubilee line extension between Charing Cross and Fenchurch Street, which had planned intermediate stations at Cannon Street, Ludgate Circus (City Thameslink) and Aldwych. The tunnels between Charing Cross and Aldwych were constructed as part of the first phase of the Jubilee Line (Baker Street to Charing Cross).

Providing a DLR service along this route might improve interchange with Underground services, reducing the need to change at Bank. It could use the existing Charing Cross tunnels and disused Jubilee line platforms at Charing Cross, but all would need to be enlarged to fit DLR trains as well as an emergency walkway (as on the Jubilee Line extension and the DLR tunnels at Bank and under the Thames).

No current news for this project.