Transport for London has announced that the first of 54 new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) B23 stock have begun passenger service, The new B23 trains are apart of the DLR modernization plan. This plan will see an increase in the capacity of the DLR as well as improve customer reliability and comfort.
Modern Features and Service Boosts
Improved trains built by CAF, were tested before being put to service. These trains come with modern and improved features that include, air conditioning, walk-through cars, real-time passenger information systems, and charging ports for electronic devices. These trains also include new multi-purpose areas that accommodate, wheelchairs, strollers, bicycles, and luggage.
Compared to the retiring fleet, the new trains will provide approximately 10% increased capacity per train. Once all 54 new trains are in service, DLR is expected to increase its capacity by 50%.
Last year, TfL announced a reduced timetable for whole DLR network to allow for the withdrawal of its older B07 fleet. Once the new B23 stock come into service, the full timetable will be reinstated with improved frequency and journey times.
Significance and Challenges Ahead
According to the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, the launch is the first of many modern train services to the East and South side of London. He believes the train services will help to develop housing and grow the economies of places such as Stratford, Woolwich Arsenal and, the Isle of Dogs. Sadiq Khan has said the new train services will be of great value and he is excited to see the value they will bring to the community.
Although train services started 18 months later than planned, modern train services are a positive step and benefits predicted to be seen immediately. The rest of the older stock DLR is planned to be finished by the end of 2026. The predicted benefits will arrive almost instantly with these new trains, however, the predicted completion of the older stock will allow the planned services to be of great value.
Equipped and ready, these trains will allow the DLR extension from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead. The DLR extension is a great step as it is to serve the less connected and underserved parts of London. The extension is proposed to be a great improvement on public transportation and community services. The DLR extension is predicted to allow the growing London community better access to transportation services. The predicted positive benefits of the new trains designed for comfort will hopefully be used as a benchmark, as there are great expectations of the DLR ’s operational reliability, operational resilience and, ability to serve the growing demands in the future.
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