Superloop 2, the next phase in the expansion of express bus routes linking outer London boroughs, is anticipated to be introduced by the end of this year, as stated by the head of London’s bus services.
Transport for London (TfL) Commissioner Andy Lord expressed his optimism about launching the initial new routes before 2025 concludes, although he noted that consultations must occur first.
The initial Superloop network, which features express bus routes, was launched in 2023. Last year, Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan included the initiation of Superloop 2 in his re-election manifesto.
The mayor indicated that this would effectively double the existing network’s size.
This expansion might introduce an additional 10 services, one of which is the proposed “Bakerloop” bus that would trace the path of the suggested Bakerloo line extension from Elephant and Castle to Lewisham.
When questioned about the timeline for public consultations regarding the new services, Mr. Lord stated, “We will be initiating that process soon. While I cannot provide precise details right now, we are quite enthusiastic about the upcoming routes.
“I am optimistic that we might be able to launch the first one by year’s end.”
He added that the Superloop has significantly benefited from increased ridership, enhancing public awareness of the bus services, and there is excitement surrounding what the next phase can bring to the city.
The original Superloop consists of seven services that create a circular network of routes spanning London’s suburbs, aimed at improving connections among town centers throughout outer London.
An additional three routes were part of this first phase, though one of them is still pending launch due to its reliance on the Silvertown Tunnel, which won’t open for another two months.
The SL4 route, which will connect Canary Wharf via the new tunnel under the Thames to Blackheath, Lee, and Grove Park railway stations, is among those pending routes.
TfL reported that the Superloop services have added over six million bus kilometers annually to London’s network, surpassing the initial prediction of four million.
This network integrates with 310 other bus routes, 49 rail stations, and 23 rail lines.
Here is the complete list of proposed routes for Superloop 2:
