Transport for London (TfL) is set to launch a new Superloop express bus service in South East London this weekend, marking a significant expansion of the capital's outer orbital network. The SL11 route will commence operations, providing a faster and more direct connection between Abbey Wood and North Greenwich, with key stops at Thamesmead and Woolwich along the way.
Enhanced Connectivity and Regeneration Support
This limited-stop express service is specifically designed to reduce journey times for passengers while improving links to major rail interchanges. It plays a crucial role in supporting ongoing regeneration plans in the Thamesmead area, which includes the recently approved DLR extension that received government backing in the Autumn Budget.
Launch Celebrations and Free Travel Offer
To celebrate the inauguration of the SL11 service, TfL is offering a special incentive for pay-as-you-go customers. During the first week of operation, passengers will be able to travel for free on this new route. It is important to note that travellers will still need to tap in with their Oyster cards or contactless payment methods, but no fare will be charged for these initial journeys.
Service Details and Frequency Improvements
The new SL11 route replaces the daytime 472 service with significantly enhanced frequency. Between 7am and 9pm from Monday to Saturday, buses will run every six minutes, while at other times the service will operate every 10 to 12 minutes. Early Sunday mornings will see buses arriving every 15 minutes.
Additionally, a new night service designated N472 will operate daily between 00:15 and 04:45, serving all existing 472 stops with a frequency of every 30 minutes.
Growing Superloop Network Impact
With the addition of SL11, the Superloop network now encompasses 218 kilometres of express bus routes circling outer London. This expansion adds approximately 8.1 million bus kilometres annually to London's transport infrastructure. The network has already transported around 60 million passengers since its initial launch, demonstrating its popularity and effectiveness.
The SL11 follows the successful introduction of the BL1 service between Waterloo and Lewisham last autumn, continuing TfL's commitment to enhancing sustainable transport options across the capital.
Strategic Transport Integration
The new express service will provide quicker connections between multiple transport systems including the Elizabeth line, DLR, London Underground, and National Rail services. This integration forms a key component of TfL's broader strategy to improve sustainable transport connections in areas that have historically been underserved by rail infrastructure.
Official Support and Statements
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan expressed his enthusiasm for the latest Superloop addition, stating he was "delighted to launch the latest Superloop." He emphasised that "replacing the 472 with this faster, more direct service will help to support regeneration in Thamesmead and boost transport links in a historically under-served part of London."
Lorna Murphy, TfL's Director of Buses, highlighted how the route would "boost travel and journey times" while encouraging Londoners to take advantage of the introductory free travel period.
Alternative Options for Affected Passengers
Passengers who currently use stops that will no longer be served by the SL11 service will need to transition to other high-frequency alternatives. These include routes 161, 177, 180, 244, 301, and 380. For those requiring to change buses during their journey, the Hopper fare remains available, allowing unlimited bus journeys within one hour for the standard fare of £1.75.
The launch of SL11 represents another step forward in London's evolving public transport landscape, providing residents with more efficient and sustainable travel options while supporting broader urban development initiatives across the capital.
