West London Orbital rail link moves forward with TfL funding
Transport for London has announced initial funding to progress the proposed West London Orbital railway, a project designed to connect several west London boroughs without requiring passengers to travel through the capital’s centre.
The scheme would link the boroughs of Hounslow, Ealing, Brent and Barnet by bringing an existing freight line back into passenger use as part of the London Overground network. The line would run between Hounslow and Hendon, offering connections with the Underground, National Rail services and the Elizabeth line, as well as the future HS2 network.
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The proposed West London Orbital rail project has been discussed for several years as a way to improve orbital transport connections across outer London, allowing passengers to move between boroughs without travelling into central London.
TfL has agreed a funding package of up to £6.65 million with the Greater London Authority and the boroughs involved to begin the next phase of work on the project.
Plans for the railway were outlined in the Mayor’s Transport Strategy as a way of supporting growth and improving sustainable travel options across west London.
Four new stations are proposed at Neasden, Harlesden, Old Oak Common Lane and Lionel Road. Additional platforms are also planned at Hendon station and at Brent Cross West.
In Hounslow, the project is closely linked to redevelopment plans for the Golden Mile corridor, where large-scale regeneration is expected to bring new homes and employment opportunities over the coming years.
TfL said the next stage of work will include further research into the benefits of the railway, the development of a potential timetable and detailed design work for stations and supporting infrastructure.
If the project receives the necessary approvals and funding, passenger services could begin operating by 2035.
Transport planners say improved orbital rail connections could help reduce pressure on major west London roads such as the North Circular and the Great West Road by offering a practical alternative to car travel.
TfL estimates that the railway could support the delivery of around 25,000 new homes, create more than 11,000 jobs and generate wider economic benefits across west London.
An initial public consultation on the scheme is expected to take place this summer, with residents and businesses invited to provide feedback on the plans.
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[Image Credit | © Transport for London / Mayor of London]
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