A new London Overground route could make it much easier to travel across west and northwest London without passing through the centre of the capital.
Transport for London is developing proposals for the West London Orbital, a service linking Hounslow and Hendon through a mix of existing and new stations. The planned route would use underused rail corridors, including the Dudding Hill line, which currently carries freight trains but has not had passenger services for more than 100 years.
A 12-station route across west London
The proposed WLO would serve 12 stations, including four new ones. It would run from Hendon through Brent Cross West, Neasden, Old Oak Common and the Golden Mile before reaching Hounslow.
South of Old Oak Common Lane, trains would stop at Acton Central and South Acton. They would then use a freight line through Chiswick, including a proposed new station at Lionel Road, before joining the Hounslow Loop to serve Brentford, Syon Lane and Isleworth.
Several existing stations would need upgrades, such as new platforms, station entrances, step-free access improvements or changes to their layouts. The route would also provide interchange opportunities with other rail, Underground and Overground services.
Faster journeys between outer London areas
The “Orbital” name reflects the proposed route’s arc around London. Rather than taking passengers into central London, it is intended to create direct links between outer areas, reducing the need to change trains in the centre.
TfL says the service could connect people more conveniently with jobs, education, town centres, new housing and regeneration areas. It would also support planned growth around places including Brent Cross, Old Oak Common, the Golden Mile and Hounslow.
The service is being considered at a frequency of four to six trains an hour. TfL says using existing rail corridors could help limit construction disruption and provide better value for money, although substantial work would still be needed to upgrade stations and infrastructure.
Funding and next steps
The project remains at an early stage. TfL is still developing station and infrastructure designs, testing the timetable, assessing passenger benefits and considering the effects on roads and the environment.
Funding and the necessary consents have not yet been secured. Subject to progress, a decision could be made at the end of 2027 on whether to prepare a Transport and Works Act Order application. If funding, approvals and other requirements are met, construction could begin in the early 2030s, with services potentially starting by 2035.
The consultation material asked people to comment on the route, stations and possible impacts on local communities. Responses will help shape the next stage of the plans, with a further public consultation expected if the project moves forward.
Why this is good news for Britain
The proposal would make better use of existing railway infrastructure while giving communities in west and northwest London more direct public transport choices. Improved links could help people reach jobs, education, homes and town centres, while easing pressure on busy road and rail routes.
