London's iconic transportation network is getting an upgrade as each of the six Overground lines that cover the Greater London network will now boast its own unique name and colour.
The change comes after research showed that the single orange colour which featured on all the maps and signage for the Overground lines, was causing confusion for passengers.
Transport for London (TfL) has now confirmed that from August 2024, the new branding will see each route have its own colour featured on maps, stations, and digital tools like TfL Go. However, the distinctive orange roundel which has become synonymous with the Overground will stay but it will now be joined by a spectrum of colours reflecting the unique stories and identities of each line.
TfL held sessions with stakeholders, historians and local communities to choose the names which can be seen below;
- The Lioness Line (Yellow): Euston to Watford Junction, honouring the inspiring England women's football team.
- The Mildmay Line (Blue): Stratford to Richmond/Clapham Junction, commemorating the historic hospital and its pivotal role in the LGBTQ+ community.
- The Windrush Line (Red): Highbury & Islington to Clapham Junction/New Cross/Crystal Palace/West Croydon, celebrating the Windrush generation's enduring impact on London's cultural landscape.
- The Weaver Line (Maroon): Liverpool Street to Cheshunt/Enfield Town/Chingford, recognizing the textile industry's influence and the contributions of diverse communities in these areas.
- The Suffragette Line (Green): Gospel Oak to Barking Riverside, paying tribute to the East End's working-class movement for women's suffrage.
- The Liberty Line (Grey): Romford to Upminster, referencing the historical independence of the people of Havering.
London's transport commissioner, Andy Lord, believes the new names and colours will not only simplify the network but also encourage more people to explore the Overground. "This is a great way to tell the stories of some important parts of London's cultural diversity," he said.
Mayor Sadiq Khan echoed this sentiment, calling the initiative "a hugely exciting moment" that will transform how Londoners think about their transport network. "Giving each of the Overground lines distinct colours and identities will make it simpler and easier for passengers to get around," he said. "We are also honouring and celebrating different parts of London's unique local history and culture."
London’s transport watchdog, London Travelwatch welcomed the introduction of the named lines, with chief executive, Michael Roberts commenting, “It's good to see the new names of the six London Overground lines revealed.
“Distinguishing between the separate lines should help passengers plan journeys more easily and know which services are running at times of disruption simply by hearing the name of the line.
We look forward to seeing this rolled out and will be keeping an eye on how it's integrated into the current system, particularly with TfL’s journey planner and map.”
Photo: iStock
Graphic: TfL
