Transport for London (TfL) has launched a public consultation on plans to alter five bus routes in North London. The proposed changes are designed to serve a major new housing development at Meridian Water, where 10,000 new homes are being built over the next two decades.
Addressing a Transport Gap for New Residents
The disused Meridian Water industrial site is undergoing a vast regeneration project to tackle Enfield's housing shortage. While the first residents moved in during 2024, with hundreds more arriving annually, TfL warns that many new homes will be poorly connected. Some housing blocks are currently over 400 metres from the nearest bus stop.
To prevent this, the transport authority is seeking feedback from North Londoners on a series of route modifications intended to integrate the development into the local bus network effectively. The consultation is open on the TfL website until Monday, February 23.
Detailed Route Changes Proposed
The central proposal involves extending the route 476. Currently running between King's Cross and Northumberland Park, it would be extended towards Meridian Water station and through to the development's end near the North Circular Road.
As a consequence, the route 341 from Waterloo would be shortened to terminate at Northumberland Park station instead of continuing to Meridian Water. However, the night service N341 would be lengthened to mirror the new 476 endpoint.
The route 444 between Turnpike Lane and Chingford would also be rerouted. Instead of travelling directly past Meridian Water on the North Circular, it would turn onto Conduit Lane, serve Meridian Water station and the new development, before rejoining the main road.
Terminus Swaps for the W8 and 192
Further changes involve switching the termination points of two other services. The W8 route from Chase Farm Hospital would no longer finish at Lee Valley Athletics Centre. Instead, it would turn right onto Montagu Road, stop at Meridian Water, and end at Tottenham Hale. This double-decker service is expected to provide crucial capacity for the new area.
To compensate, the route 192 would be adjusted to follow the W8's current path on Montagu Road and terminate at Lee Valley Athletics Centre. TfL notes the 192 is a single-decker service that runs less frequently than the W8.
Potential Impact and Next Steps
TfL acknowledges the plans may disadvantage some existing passengers. Users of the 341 may need to change buses to complete their journey, and stops on the North Circular adjacent to Meridian Water would no longer be served by the 444.
The proposed changes are part of a coordinated effort with Enfield Council, which has plans for a bus-only road through the heart of Meridian Water. Residents and regular users of the affected routes—476, 341, 444, W8, and 192—are strongly encouraged to review the detailed plans and submit their views before the February deadline.
