TfL launches consultation on new West London Orbital Overground line
Transport for London has opened an eight‑week consultation on a planned West London Orbital Overground line that would use freight tracks to link key west‑London communities. The scheme could add up to six trains per hour, cut 650,000 car journeys a year and support significant housing and employme…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Transport for London (TfL) has opened an eight‑week public consultation on a proposed West London Orbital Overground line that would use existing freight tracks to connect communities from Brent Cross to Hounslow. The consultation runs until 18 November, giving Londoners a chance to shape a scheme that could add up to six trains per hour and deliver major economic and environmental benefits.
What the new line would look like
The West London Orbital would run roughly 18.5 kilometres, linking north and northwest London with the capital’s western suburbs. Planned stops include Brent Cross, Neasden, Harlesden, Acton, Brentford and Hounslow, with a key interchange at Old Oak Common – a major transport hub that will host Crossrail, the Elizabeth Line and a future high‑speed rail link to the Midlands.
Currently, the rail corridor that would become the Orbital is used only for freight. TfL’s proposal would convert the line into a passenger service, using the existing infrastructure to avoid the cost and disruption of building entirely new tracks.
Projected benefits and economic impact
According to TfL, the new service could remove around 650,000 car journeys per year across London, improving air quality and easing congestion. The scheme is also expected to support the construction of roughly 25,000 homes and the creation of 11,500 jobs, generating up to £1.3 billion in wider economic benefits.
In addition to boosting housing and employment, the line would improve access to schools, hospitals and other essential services, helping to balance development across the city and support regeneration in under‑connected areas.
Consultation details and next steps
Londoners can submit written feedback, attend public meetings and engage with TfL’s online consultation portal. The consultation will run for eight weeks, ending on 18 November. All responses will be considered in the next phase of design, modelling and public engagement work.
Earlier this year, TfL secured a funding package of up to £6.65 million to support the next stage of the project. A formal decision on whether to seek powers to build the line will be taken in 2027, once the scheme’s feasibility and funding have been fully assessed.
Reactions from city leaders
Lord Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, highlighted the line’s potential to “unlock 25,000+ homes, support thousands of jobs, improve air quality and help cut congestion.” He encouraged residents to participate in the consultation to help shape the future of the network.
David Rowe, TfL’s Director of Investment Planning, said the consultation “offers an important opportunity for people to shape the future of this new London Overground route.” He stressed that using existing rail infrastructure would enhance connectivity across west and northwest London.
Deputy Mayor Seb Dance praised the initiative as a “first step in proposals to add a brand‑new line to the London Overground network,” noting the potential for regeneration and growth along the corridor.
With the consultation now open, Londoners have a clear window to influence a project that could reshape travel patterns, support new homes and jobs, and make the city greener and more connected.
Key facts
- Proposed line uses existing freight tracks to connect west London communities
- Could add up to six trains per hour and cut 650,000 car journeys a year
- Supports 25,000 new homes and 11,500 jobs, with £1.3 billion in economic benefits
- Consultation runs until 18 November, with a decision on powers in 2027
- Mayor Sadiq Khan and TfL leaders urge public participation
Why it matters
The proposed line could significantly reduce car use, support new housing and jobs, and improve connectivity across a traditionally underserved part of London, addressing both transport and affordability challenges.
Frequently asked questions
What is the West London Orbital?
A proposed London Overground line that would use current freight tracks to connect Brent Cross, Neasden, Harlesden, Acton, Brentford and Hounslow, with an interchange at Old Oak Common.
When does the consultation end?
The eight‑week consultation closes on 18 November.
How can I give feedback?
Submit written comments, attend public meetings or use TfL’s online consultation portal.
Will the line replace existing services?
No, it would run alongside current freight operations and would not replace any existing passenger services.
What are the projected economic benefits?
The scheme could generate up to £1.3 billion in wider economic benefits, support 25,000 homes and 11,500 jobs.
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “TfL opens consultation on proposed new London Overground line”
