Alsharq Tribune - world news
Superloop 2, the next phase in a network of express bus routes connecting outer London boroughs, could be launched by the end of the year, according to the city's bus chief.
Transport for London Commissioner Andy Lord expressed hopes that the first of the new routes would be operational before the end of 2025, though a consultation process will be required first.
The original Superloop network of express bus routes was introduced in 2023, and in his re-election manifesto last year, Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan promised to expand the network with Superloop 2.
This expansion would effectively double the size of the current network.
' Bakerloop '
The expansion could introduce around 10 additional services, including a "Bakerloop" bus that would follow the proposed route of the Bakerloo line extension from Elephant and Castle to Lewisham.
When asked about the timeline for consulting on the new routes, Mr. Lord said, "We'll be doing that shortly. I can’t provide specifics right now, but we're very excited about the upcoming routes. I’m hopeful that we might be able to launch the first one by the end of the year."
He also highlighted the success of the original Superloop, which has seen significant ridership growth and increased awareness of bus services. "We're really excited about what the next phase can bring to the city," he added.
The current Superloop network consists of seven services, forming a circular network through outer London, designed to improve connections between suburban town centres.
Three additional routes were part of the initial phase, though one has yet to launch.
This remaining route, SL4, will utilize the Silvertown Tunnel, which won’t open for another two months.
SL4 will run from Canary Wharf, pass through the new tunnel under the Thames, and reach Blackheath, Lee, and Grove Park railway stations.
TfL said Superloop services had added more than six million bus kilometres a year to the capital's network, above the four million originally forecast.
The network connects with 310 other bus routes, 49 rail stations and 23 rail lines.
The full list of proposed Superloop 2 routes:
. Harrow to Barnet, via Edgware
. Barnet to Stratford, via Enfield and Chingford
. Leytonstone to South Havering, via Gants Hill and Romford
. North Greenwich to Thamesmead, via Woolwich
. Bakerloop line: Elephant and Castle to Lewisham, via Old Kent Road and New Cross
. Streatham to Eltham, via Tulse Hill and Lee
. Richmond to Wimbledon, via Roehampton
. Ealing Broadway to Kingston, via Great West Road and Richmond
. Hounslow to Hammersmith, via Great West Road
. Hendon to Ealing Broadway, via Brent Cross and Hanger Lane
