New DLR Station Faces Funding Gap Despite 1,500 Homes Plan
Transport for London is seeking developer contributions for Thames Wharf station after completing feasibility designs.
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Transport for London (TfL) has completed the feasibility design stage for a proposed new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station, Thames Wharf, in the Royal Docks. However, the transport authority has stated there is a significant funding gap for the project. TfL is looking to developer Arada to contribute towards the station's construction costs.
Developer's Plans and Station's Role
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The potential for the Thames Wharf station has increased following developer Arada's announcement of plans for the first phase of its Thameside West development. This initial phase includes 1,500 homes, with the wider development on a brownfield site opposite the O2 Arena potentially seeing 5,000 apartments built. TfL aims for the new station to serve this growing residential area.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, group chief executive officer of Arada, described Thameside West as a "landscape-led masterplan, composed by nature, open to all and made for London." He added that the ambition is "to create more than a new residential district," aiming for it to be "a neighbourhood within the city, not an enclave at its edge."
Design and Future Considerations
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TfL finished the feasibility design stage for Thames Wharf station at the end of July 2026. The authority is now working to finalise these designs as it seeks to secure the necessary funding. A TfL study from 2018, as reported by Ian Visits, suggested the station could incorporate stairs and 17-person lifts at its eastern end. The study also noted the possibility of adding a second set of stairs or lifts on the western side at a later date if demand increases.
A masterplan for the Royal Docks area, approved by City Hall in 2020, included a commitment to provide 35 per cent affordable homes across the development. The plans also outline a 30,000-square-metre commercial space, adventure-woodland areas, trails, play spaces, and the planting of 1,000 trees.
Next Steps and Consultation
Construction on the Thameside West site itself is scheduled to commence in early 2028, according to the Architects' Journal. A spokesperson for TfL confirmed that no public consultation will be required for the station's construction itself, but feedback will be sought on any associated planning permission applications. TfL stated they "continue to explore potential external funding sources with partners to support its future delivery."
Questions this report answers
+What is the current status of the Thames Wharf DLR station plans?
Transport for London has completed the feasibility design stage for the proposed Thames Wharf DLR station. However, TfL has identified a significant funding gap and is exploring external funding sources, including potential contributions from developer Arada.
+Who is developing the nearby housing project?
Developer Arada is planning the Thameside West development, which will include 1,500 homes in its first phase. The wider development could eventually comprise 5,000 apartments on a brownfield site.
+When is construction expected to start on the Thameside West site?
Construction on the Thameside West development site is scheduled to begin in early 2028. This development is intended to be served by the proposed Thames Wharf DLR station.
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