A major transformation of one of the capital’s most vital transport networks officially began this week as the first of 54 brand-new DLR trains entered passenger service. The rollout marks the start of a bold new era for the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), replacing the oldest parts of the fleet, some of which have been in service for more than three decades.
The investment in the new fleet is set to significantly improve reliability and capacity, helping to sustain growth in London’s fastest-developing areas, which heavily rely on the DLR. Once all 54 trains are operational by the end of 2026, the DLR’s overall capacity is expected to increase by more than 50 per cent.
Cutting-Edge Design for a Growing City
The new DLR trains are packed with customer-friendly features, leveraging the latest technology to enhance comfort and accessibility for millions of journeys across East and South London.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is an exciting day in east and south London with the introduction of these brand-new trains marking a major milestone in the transformation of the DLR to improve travel for millions of Londoners. These new trains are amazing. Built with the latest cutting-edge design and technology, the trains will have 10 per cent bigger capacity, improved onboard customer information, mobile device charging points, air conditioning and better accessibility features for all passengers. The new DLR trains will significantly improve reliability and support growth in new homes and jobs, particularly for Londoners in areas like Stratford, Woolwich Arsenal and the Isle of Dogs. I’m committed to modernising infrastructure on London’s transport network, which is vital for faster, greener and safer journeys that are accessible for all.”
Key features of the state-of-the-art trains include:
- Spacious walk-through carriages with 10 per cent more capacity than the current trains.
- Air-conditioning for improved comfort.
- Live travel information and mobile device charging points.
- Three dedicated wheelchair spaces and three multi-use areas for pushchairs, bicycles, and luggage to improve accessibility.
Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “These state-of-the-art trains will transform customers’ journeys across the DLR network. Boosting capacity and improving reliability, these new trains will help the DLR keep pace with growing demand in this part of the capital. Customers will benefit from more comfortable, frequent, and accessible services.”
Funding and Future Development
The rolling stock replacement programme is backed by significant funding, including £260 million from the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund and a £500 million loan from the National Wealth Fund. This investment recognises the DLR’s vital role in unlocking thousands of new homes and economic opportunities. London City Airport also contributed more than £5 million towards the cost.
The DLR serves six Opportunity Areas in London, with around 45,000 homes already under construction or with planning permission within walking distance.
Lorna Pimlott, National Wealth Fund Managing Director, Local Authority Advisory and Lending, said: “We’re delighted to see the first of TfL’s new DLR trains being rolled out and brought into service. NWF has provided significant funding and support to the rolling stock replacement programme, and this is a major milestone in the project’s development. These new trains will not only improve capacity and passenger experience but also unlock housing and economic opportunities in some of London’s most underserved communities.”
The new trains are supplied by manufacturer CAF. Richard Garner, UK Director for CAF, said: “CAF is immensely proud to see the first of our new DLR trains enter passenger service in London. This achievement represents an important milestone in our long-standing commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable transport solutions, whilst also highlighting the strength of our collaboration with Transport for London. To have our trains operating in such a dynamic and iconic city is a great honour, and a source of real satisfaction for everyone at CAF. We are confident that these new trains will deliver reliable, modern and comfortable journeys, helping to support the continued growth and vitality of London for many years to come.”
The arrival of the new fleet is also seen as a crucial preparatory step for the potential extension of the DLR from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead, a transformative project that would unlock thousands of new homes and improve connectivity in one of London’s most underserved areas.
