Transport for London (TfL) is urging the public to share their views on the proposed addition of new express bus routes to the Superloop bus network.
The new services, which will operate across south and east London, are projected to boost bus capacity in crowded areas, promote sustainable journeys, and shorten travel times while enhancing transportation options in Bromley, Croydon, North Woolwich, and Walthamstow.
Proposed routes include SL2, running along part of the existing route 123, serving Barking and eastern Royal Docks; SL3, parallel to parts of routes 301 and 269; and SL5, a new express route between Bromley North and Croydon Town Centre. Consultations for these routes are now open until 4 September 2023.
In addition, TfL plans to enhance the service on two Superloop routes, doubling the frequency of the SL7 service and extending the timetable of the SL8 service. This follows the recent introduction of route SL8, the first to feature Superloop branding. Over the summer, three other express routes will be rebranded and renumbered to help customers easily identify Superloop services.
The Superloop network aims to improve public transport connectivity in outer London by linking town centres, hospitals, schools, and transport hubs. It aligns with the Mayor’s commitment to enhancing outer London’s bus network and is expected to contribute more than four million additional kilometres to London’s bus network, boosting public transport options in anticipation of the city-wide ULEZ expansion.
“I am delighted that last week we launched the first Superloop buses, and now we’re asking Londoners to have their say on proposals for some of the new Superloop routes,” says London Mayor Sadiq Khan. “I’m excited about the benefits these new services could bring by providing Londoners with more alternatives to private car use, and helping us to build a better, greener London for everyone. I encourage all Londoners to respond to the consultation.”
TfL says the proposed Superloop has received positive reactions from stakeholders, including London TravelWatch and Redbridge Council, which highlighted the potential benefits for cross-borough travel, the need for bus priority measures, and the importance of local input in shaping enhanced bus services for the capital.