Transport for London (TfL) has launched a consultation on a proposed ‘Bakerloop’ express bus service, largely following the proposed Bakerloo line extension route.
The consultation, which runs until 14 March 2025, was announced by TfL and the Mayor of London at an event in south London.
The Bakerloop service would connect Waterloo, Elephant & Castle, and Lewisham. The route would pass through key areas including Burgess Park, Old Kent Road, New Cross Gate, Lewisham station, and Lewisham town centre.
This bus service aims to enhance transport links in southeast London while demonstrating the potential benefits of the Bakerloo line extension.
The proposal builds on the success of the Superloop network, a 138-kilometre express bus service introduced last year that has added over six million kilometres annually to London’s transport network.
Since its launch in June 2023, the Superloop has seen an average passenger increase of 11% on its corridors, significantly higher than the network average.
Subject to consultation, the ‘Bakerloop’ service, to be designated BL1, could commence in autumn 2025. The route would facilitate connections to the London Underground, London Overground, DLR, National Rail, and other bus routes, improving accessibility and direct travel options in southeast London.
The London Boroughs of Lewisham and Southwark have expressed support for the project, with Southwark Council contributing Section 106 funding from local developments.
Meanwhile, discussions between the Mayor, TfL, and the Government continue on funding the Bakerloo line extension, which is seen as vital for upgrading transport infrastructure, unlocking new housing developments, and supporting economic growth.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said:Last year, I made a commitment to Londoners to introduce the new Bakerloop bus route, which would run between Waterloo and Lewisham. Today, I'm pleased to announce that TfL is launching this consultation as the first step towards delivering on this commitment, building on the continued success of the Superloop express bus services.
The new proposed route will mirror the route of the potential Bakerloo line extension and better connect people around southeast London, while also helping to demonstrate how much the capital needs the Bakerloo line extension. This vital infrastructure would not only provide better transport links and upgrade the existing line, but also unlock thousands of new homes and jobs, boosting the economy and building a better, fairer and more prosperous London for all.
The consultation on the Bakerloop forms part of a broader expansion of the Superloop network. Two further express routes are also being considered: SL11, which would connect Abbey Wood and North Greenwich, supporting Thamesmead’s regeneration, and SL12, linking Rainham, Ferry Lane, and Gants Hill. These routes would integrate with existing Superloop services, enhancing connectivity in outer London.
The final Superloop service, SL4, between Canary Wharf and Grove Park, is set to launch on 7 April 2025 alongside the opening of Silvertown Tunnel.
