Images released by Transport for London (TfL) show the first of 54 brand-new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains that have now entered service, marking the start of a major upgrade to one of London’s busiest transport networks.
The new fleet will replace the oldest trains – some of which have been running for more than 30 years – with modern, high-capacity carriages built to meet the demands of a growing city.
Each of the new trains features walk-through carriages with 10 per cent more capacity, air conditioning, real-time travel updates, mobile charging points, and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, pushchairs, bicycles, and luggage. Once all 54 trains are in service, overall capacity on the DLR will increase by more than 50 per cent, with the full rollout expected by the end of 2026.
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.”
Transport Commissioner Andy Lord added: “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.”
The new trains have undergone extensive testing and are part of a larger investment in London’s transport infrastructure. A total of £260 million has been provided through the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, with a further £500 million financed through a loan from the National Wealth Fund. London City Airport has also contributed over £5 million, highlighting the importance of the DLR for sustainable travel to and from the airport.
Richard Graham, Managing Director of KeolisAmey Docklands, said: “For passengers, these trains mean more space, comfort and reliability. For our people, they provide the latest tools and technology to keep the DLR running safely and smoothly every day. Above all, this investment is about unlocking the potential of east London – helping its communities thrive as new homes, jobs and opportunities are created.”
The introduction of the new trains supports development in six “Opportunity Areas” served by the DLR, where tens of thousands of new homes are planned or under construction. TfL is also exploring a proposed extension of the DLR from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead to further improve connectivity in one of London’s fastest-growing areas.
The rollout of the new fleet will continue over the coming months, with more trains entering service and a full timetable returning once the older trains are fully replaced.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
