Transport for London (TfL) has announced its next Superloop express service, SL11, which from the 24 January runs as a limited-stop express service between Abbey Wood and North Greenwich via Thamesmead and Woolwich.
According to TfL, the new Superloop will support regeneration plans in the Thamesmead area and the DLR extension, which was given the green light in the Government's Autumn Budget.
It comes after TfL's latest consultation on proposals to extend the DLR from Gallions Reach to Beckton Riverside and Thamesmead demonstrated strong public backing.
To celebrate the launch, pay as you go customers will be able to enjoy free travel on SL11 for the first week.
Customers will still be required to touch in with a valid Oyster card or contactless card as they board the bus as usual but won't be charged.
The SL11 replaces route 472 (in the daytime only), improving journey times in the southeast and providing quicker connections to other key services in the capital.
It will run at a higher frequency than route 472 improving wait times, says TfL.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I'm delighted to launch the latest Superloop, SL11, a new express bus route connecting communities from North Greenwich to Abbey Wood via Thamesmead and Woolwich.”
"Replacing the 472 with this faster, more direct service will help to support early regeneration plans in Thamesmead and boost transport links in a historically under-served part of London,” he added.
Also commenting on the new Superloop announcement was Lorna Murphy, TfL's Director of Buses, who said: “The SL11 will boost travel and journey times and crucially will mean faster connections between the Elizabeth line, DLR, London Underground and National Rail.”