Each of London's six overground lines will for the first time ever be given a unique name and line colours.

This significant change, which will include a major update to London's world-famous Tube map, will make it easier for customers to navigate London's transport network while also celebrating the city's diverse culture and history.

Research by Transport for London (TfL) has shown that some customers find the London Overground network confusing and would find it easier to navigate if it wasn't one single colour and name.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: "This is a hugely exciting moment, transforming how we think about London's transport network.

"Giving each of the Overground lines distinct colours and identities will make it simpler and easier for passengers to get around. In re-imagining London's tube map, we are also honouring and celebrating different parts of London's unique local history and culture.

"The new names and colours have been chosen through engagement with passengers, historians and local communities, reflecting the heritage and diversity of our amazing city." 

Each route will be represented by a new line name and colour on the Tube map, on train line diagrams, at stations and on digital journey planning tools, such as TfL Go.  The much-loved orange roundel will continue to be used across the London Overground network.

The new line names are:

• The Lioness line: Euston to Watford Junction
• The Mildmay line: Stratford to Richmond/Clapham Junction
• The Windrush line: Highbury & Islington to Clapham Junction/New Cross/Crystal Palace/West Croydon.
• The Weaver line: Liverpool Street to Cheshunt/Enfield Town/Chingford
• The Suffragette line: Gospel Oak to Barking Riverside
• The Liberty line: Romford to Upminster

Andy Lord, London's Transport Commissioner, said: "The London Overground is one of the most successful railways in the country and has grown to carry more than three million customers a week. The network, which has grown quite considerably since 2007, is currently shown as a complicated network of orange on route maps.  

“This can be confusing for customers less familiar with the network and could be a barrier for some wanting to use the London Overground.

“These new names and line colours will simplify the maps and routes for our customers, and it is hoped it will encourage more people to make the most of our services.  It is also a great way to tell the stories of some important parts of London's cultural diversity."