SL12 Superloop bus route approved for Havering, launching 2026
TfL confirms adjustments to stops in Romford and Rainham after public consultation feedback
Trust 50Craft 55Hype 30How this was reported ▾
Only one named source (TfL spokesperson) with no independent verification.
How well corroborated and evidenced the reporting is. Higher is better.
No affected residents or opposition voices quoted; vague launch timing.
Context, balance and separation of fact from comment. Higher is better.
Headline overstates certainty with 'still on track' despite no date.
How far presentation runs ahead of substance. Lower is better.
1 source assessed · methodology
Transport for London will introduce a new express bus route in Havering next year. The SL12 Superloop will connect Gants Hill and Rainham, stopping at Romford, Elm Park, and Queen’s Hospital. The service was approved after a public consultation held in 2025.
TfL confirmed the route will operate every 12 minutes between Monday and Saturday during the day. On Sundays, evenings, and early mornings, buses will run every 15 minutes. The service will use double-decker buses equipped with USB charging points and accessibility features.
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Consultation feedback shapes route adjustments
The final route includes changes made after residents and commuters responded to the consultation. In Rainham, the service will now serve the Tesco bus stop in both directions. TfL said this will provide a consistent link for shoppers and nearby residents.
In Romford, the route will stop at two new locations for Romford station, replacing the originally proposed stops. TfL said the adjustments will improve connectivity and offer more onward travel options. The consultation received 805 responses, with 79% of participants agreeing the route would be more convenient.
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“We’re pleased to see positive feedback for the new SL12 express bus following the consultation. This service will significantly enhance transport links and journey times in east London.”
Lorna Murphy, TfL director of buses
What happens next
TfL said the SL12 remains on track to launch in 2026. The exact start date has not been announced. A spokesperson told the Romford Recorder the launch date will be confirmed later this year. No further public consultation is planned before the service begins.
Questions this report answers
+When will the SL12 Superloop bus start running?
The SL12 will launch in Havering in 2026. TfL has not announced the exact date but said it will confirm it later this year. The service was approved after a 2025 public consultation.
+How often will the SL12 bus run?
The SL12 will run every 12 minutes on weekdays during the day. On Sundays, evenings, and early mornings, the service will operate every 15 minutes. TfL said this frequency reflects demand and consultation feedback.
+Which stops will the SL12 serve in Romford and Rainham?
In Romford, the SL12 will stop at two new locations for Romford station. In Rainham, it will serve the Tesco bus stop in both directions. TfL adjusted these stops after feedback from the 2025 consultation.
+Can residents still give feedback on the SL12 route?
No further public consultation is planned before the SL12 launches in 2026. TfL said it received 805 responses to its 2025 consultation, with 79% supporting the route.
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