DLR upgrades 'ready for the Olympics'

Date: 11/5/2011

Passengers using the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) as part of their travel plans during the 2012 Olympics will find the service has been extended, following a successful upgrade.

The project was completed on time and on budget, according to Transport for London (TfL) - with new three-car trains being added to the route between Tower Gateway and Beckton.

It is estimated 70,000 travellers are set to use the service each day during next year's Games.

In addition, platforms have been lengthened and track and signalling improvements have been carried out under the £325 million project, while a new station has been constructed at South Quay.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: "The 50 per cent increase in capacity and longer platforms to accommodate them have been delivered bang on time and more than a year ahead of the 2012 Games."

Meanwhile, Olympic Delivery Authority Director of Transport Hugh Sumner added that the improved service will allow communities to stay better connected "long after" the commencement of the event.

TfL and developer Treasury Holdings this week announced a public consultation into plans to extend the Northern Line to Battersea Power Station.

Posted by Mary Treen