West London Orbital could carry trains from Hendon to Hounslow by mid‑2030s
Transport minister says the project is a priority, but funding has not yet been secured and a public consultation runs until 18 November 2026
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Transport Minister Justin Madders told the Standard that the West London Orbital could be operating by the mid‑2030s if the Mayor proceeds. He said the government will keep working with the Mayor and TfL as the proposal develops. The consultation, opened by TfL, remains open until 18 November 2026, allowing local residents to influence the final plan.
Route layout and service expectations
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The proposed line will run from Hendon in north London to Hounslow in the west, re‑using existing freight corridors. Up to six trains per hour could serve the corridor, with new stations at Neasden, Harlesden, Old Oak Common Lane and Lionel Road. The Standard reported that the service would give passengers a direct cross‑London option without changing at a central hub, improving links to the Underground, Elizabeth line and other rail services.
Housing, jobs and broader impact
Brentford and Isleworth MP Ruth Cadbury, speaking in Westminster Hall, said the scheme is expected to generate 25,000 new homes and 11,500 new jobs. She also noted that the corridor could support more than three million jobs within a 45‑minute commute, highlighting the economic significance for north‑west London.
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““We can speak with some confidence that we will be giving the Mayor of London the powers and the tools to make the West London Orbital happen.””
Justin Madders, Transport Minister
Funding status and next steps
The Standard confirmed that the scheme has not yet reached the funding stage. Number 10 will work with the Greater London Authority, local councils and the Mayor to explore fiscal devolution options. TfL is tasked with drafting a timetable and keeping the project on track for the mid‑2030s target.
Questions this report answers
+When could trains start running on the West London Orbital?
Transport Minister Justin Madders said the line could be in service by the mid‑2030s, provided the Mayor and TfL move forward with the plan. This timeline is a target, not a guaranteed date.
+What are the expected housing and job benefits of the scheme?
MP Ruth Cadbury told the Standard the project is linked to 25,000 new homes and 11,500 new jobs. She also said it could support over three million jobs within a 45‑minute commute, indicating a large economic impact.
+Has the West London Orbital secured funding yet?
The Standard reported that the scheme has not entered the funding stage. The government will continue discussions with the Mayor and TfL, and funding options are being explored through fiscal devolution.
+How can residents in Hendon take part in the consultation?
TfL is running a public consultation that closes on 18 November 2026. Residents can submit feedback through the TfL website, where details of the proposed route and stations are provided.
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