Reduced timetable as new DLR trains delayed again

Newly built Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains that were due to be introduced in April 2024 will not be ready until later this year, leading to a temporary reduction in services.

A fifth of its 90 trains, some of which have been operating since the early 1990s, are being retired this summer. By the end of next year, there should be 54 new trains.

The Transport for London (TfL) commissioner's report for June states it is "rectifying the signalling issues" discovered during testing last year.

Stuart Harvey, TfL's chief capital officer, said: "We apologise for any inconvenience to customers but these changes are necessary to ensure we can maintain the most reliable service possible."

TfL hopes to introduce the 54 new trains and replace the oldest 33 in its fleet by the end of 2026.

Mr Harvey added: "Testing of the new DLR trains - which will significantly improve frequency, reliability and customer experience across the network - is now well advanced and we will soon commence reliability runs.

"We are working very closely with our supply chain to complete the final activities prior to bringing them into passenger service, and remain on track to introduce the first new trains later this year.

"To extend the life of the old trains they are replacing, there will be some short-term timetable changes to reduce mileage."

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