West London Orbital train plan opens for public consultation
Transport for London is seeking views on a new Overground service proposed to run between Hendon and Hounslow.
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Transport for London (TfL) is inviting residents to share their views on the potential West London Orbital passenger train service. The proposed line would connect Hendon in the north-west to Hounslow in the west, largely operating on existing rail infrastructure currently used for freight.
The consultation, which began recently, will remain open for eight weeks, closing on 18 November. TfL has stated that passenger services could potentially commence in the mid-2030s, subject to securing necessary funding from government and other sources, alongside obtaining all required approvals.
TfL consults on new West London Orbital Overground line
The proposed route would connect Hendon to Hounslow, with new stations planned.
Proposed Route and Stations
The 18.5km route would primarily follow existing freight lines, including the Dudding Hill line which traverses areas including Brent and Barnet and has not seen regular passenger service for over a century. TfL's preferred option involves running four trains per hour between Hounslow and Hendon. This frequency could increase to six trains per hour between Old Oak Common Lane and Hendon. The full journey from Hounslow to Hendon is estimated to take 37 minutes.
Four new stations are proposed at Neasden, Harlesden, Old Oak Common Lane, and Lionel Road. Additionally, TfL plans to introduce extra platforms at Hendon and Brent Cross West stations to accommodate the new service.
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Economic and Environmental Impact
TfL estimates that the West London Orbital line could be instrumental in supporting approximately 11,500 jobs and facilitating the development of over 25,000 new homes across the region. The service is also projected to remove around 650,000 car journeys from roads annually, potentially reducing journey times for some public transport users by more than half an hour.
The estimated cost for constructing the line falls between £810 million and £920 million based on prices from late 2023. When accounting for inflation, this figure rises to between £1 billion and £1.2 billion. TfL, government bodies, and local authorities would all be expected to contribute to the funding.
Next Steps and Funding
While £6.65 million has been allocated for design, modelling, and consultation work, shared between TfL and local partners including Barnet, Brent, Ealing, and Hounslow councils, the full construction funding has not yet been secured. David Rowe, TfL's director of investment planning, highlighted the consultation as a significant opportunity for the public to influence the route's development. Seb Dance, deputy mayor for transport, noted the scheme's potential to transform travel by utilising freight lines. Erin Walsh, director of the West London Alliance, stated the project could unlock economic potential, and Matthew Carpen, chief executive of the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation, described it as an exciting step towards a new rail link.
Further public consultations are anticipated if the project progresses through its development stages.
Questions this report answers
+What is the West London Orbital proposal?
The West London Orbital is a proposed new London Overground passenger train service that would run between Hendon and Hounslow, primarily using existing freight lines. It aims to improve connections, support job growth, and encourage new housing development.
+When does the public consultation close?
The public consultation on the West London Orbital proposal closes on 18 November. Residents are encouraged to submit their views on the plans during this eight-week period.
+How much will the West London Orbital line cost to build?
The estimated construction cost for the West London Orbital line is between £810 million and £1.2 billion. This figure accounts for potential inflation, and funding from TfL, the government, and local partners is required.
+What are the potential benefits of the West London Orbital?
TfL estimates the service could support 11,500 jobs and over 25,000 new homes. It is also expected to reduce road journeys by approximately 650,000 per year and could make some public transport journeys more than half an hour quicker.
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