London’s Superloop Expansion: More Rapid Bus Routes on the Way
London’s Superloop bus service is set to expand, promising faster connections across the capital’s outer boroughs. Following the success of the original Superloop, Superloop 2 will introduce ten new routes, making it even easier for Londoners to travel without detouring into central London. According to Transport for London (TfL), the first of these rapid bus services could launch as early as this year and aim to enhance accessibility, particularly in outer boroughs.
The Superloop network was initially designed to improve transport links in outer London, reducing the need for commuters to rely on Tube or rail services to travel between boroughs. The first Superloop buses began running in 2023, and in March 2024, the network officially became a full loop around the city. The next major addition will be the SL4, a route running through the new Silvertown Tunnel, which will be free for passengers during its first 12 months.
Superloop 2 was a key pledge in Sadiq Khan’s mayoral manifesto, and now TfL Commissioner Andy Lord has confirmed that plans are moving forward. While exact launch dates are still under discussion, Lord has hinted that the first Superloop 2 routes could be operational before the end of the year.
The expansion follows the increasing popularity of the existing Superloop services, which TfL says have led to a noticeable rise in bus usage. The new routes will connect boroughs more efficiently, particularly in areas underserved by the rail network.
Where Will Superloop 2 Go?
The ten new routes proposed under Superloop 2 will expand the network further across London, with services including:
| Route | From | To | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| SL11 | Harrow | Barnet | Edgware |
| SL12 | Barnet | Stratford | Enfield, Chingford |
| SL13 | Leytonstone | South Havering | Gants Hill, Romford |
| SL14 | North Greenwich | Thamesmead | Woolwich |
| SL15 | Elephant & Castle | Lewisham | Old Kent Road, New Cross |
| SL16 | Streatham | Eltham | Tulse Hill, Lee |
| SL17 | Richmond | Wimbledon | Roehampton |
| SL18 | Ealing Broadway | Kingston | Great West Road, Richmond |
| SL19 | Hounslow | Hammersmith | Great West Road |
| SL20 | Hendon | Ealing Broadway | Brent Cross, Hanger Lane |
TfL has confirmed that before any new routes are launched, they will go through a round of public consultation, ensuring that the service meets the needs of Londoners.
Existing Superloop Routes
Before the SL4 launches in April, the current Superloop routes already serving London include:
| Route | From | To | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| SL1 | North Finchley | Walthamstow Central | Wood Green |
| SL2 | Walthamstow Central | North Woolwich | Ilford |
| SL3 | Thamesmead | Bromley North | Sidcup |
| SL4 | Silvertown Tunnel | Woolwich | North Greenwich |
| SL5 | Bromley North | Croydon Town Centre | Beckenham |
| SL6 | West Croydon | Russell Square | Elephant & Castle |
| SL7 | West Croydon | Heathrow Airport | Sutton |
| SL8 | Uxbridge | White City | Hayes & Harlington |
| SL9 | Heathrow Airport | Harrow | Southall |
| SL10 | Harrow | North Finchley | Kenton |
With plans to introduce even more rapid bus services, Superloop 2 could transform travel across the capital, offering a faster, more connected, and more accessible way to get around.
What do you think of the Superloop expansion? Would you use these new routes? Have your say in the comments below!
For more updates on London’s transport developments, visit EyeOnLondon.
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