Transport for London (TfL) has announced plans for a new express bus route, the SL11, which will connect Abbey Wood and North Greenwich, supporting ongoing regeneration efforts in the Thamesmead area.

The proposed route is expected to transform the existing route 472 into an express service, offering faster journey times and improved connectivity.

Passengers will benefit from quicker connections between the Elizabeth line, DLR, London Underground, and National Rail services.

The SL11 route is part of TfL's expanding Superloop network, which currently consists of nine routes and covers 138 kilometres of express bus services.

According to TFL, since its launch in June 2023, the Superloop has already shown significant success, with an 11 per cent increase in passenger numbers across its corridors.

Councillor Anthony Okereke from the Royal Borough of Greenwich highlighted the route's potential, stating that it "offers a significant opportunity to enhance connectivity and support the ongoing regeneration of Thamesmead."

The consultation for the proposed SL11 route is open from 3 March 2025 until 13 April 2025. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback through the TfL website at haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/sl11-superloop.

Geoff Hobbs, TfL's Director of Public Transport Service Planning, emphasized the importance of community input: "We are committed to working closely with the relevant boroughs to ensure these express bus routes work for all communities."

The proposed route also aligns with sustainability goals. Councillor Averil Lekau noted that "a faster and more reliable bus service will encourage increased public transport usage, which is essential to cutting carbon emissions."

Alongside the SL11, TfL is also exploring additional Superloop routes, including the 'Bakerloop' and a potential SL12 connecting Rainham to Gants Hill.