Transport for London has launched a major public consultation on plans for a new London Overground service that would connect Hendon and Hounslow, opening up a long-missing rail link across west and northwest London.
The eight-week consultation, which began on 23 September 2026 and runs until 18 November 2026, invites residents, businesses and stakeholders to provide feedback on proposals to introduce passenger services along 18.5km of railway currently used exclusively for freight traffic.
The proposed route would make use of existing rail infrastructure to deliver new passenger connections between key communities, employment centres and major transport interchanges. TfL says the project could significantly improve orbital travel, reducing the need for journeys through central London while supporting regeneration and housing growth across the capital.
The consultation marks the first opportunity for the public to review detailed proposals and influence the development of the project.
Feedback gathered during the consultation will help TfL and its partners assess public support, understand potential impacts on local communities, address concerns and identify opportunities to strengthen the scheme before further decisions are made.
David Rowe, TfL's Director of Investment Planning, said:
“This consultation is an important opportunity for people to shape the future of this new London Overground route. By making better use of existing rail infrastructure, we can improve connections between communities and support growth across west and northwest London.
“We want to ensure that everyone understands the proposals and has the opportunity to share their views. All feedback will be carefully considered as we continue to develop the scheme with our partners.”
If delivered, the new line would create a strategic orbital rail connection, helping to bridge gaps in London's transport network while improving access to major destinations including Old Oak Common, which is set to become one of the UK's most important interchange stations with the arrival of HS2.
TfL's plans include operating up to six trains per hour, linking areas such as:
- Hendon
- Brent Cross
- Neasden
- Harlesden
- Old Oak Common
- Acton
- Brentford
- Hounslow
Passengers would also benefit from improved interchange opportunities with the London Underground, London Overground, National Rail, the Elizabeth line and HS2.
Subject to future funding approvals, TfL estimates the scheme could unlock significant economic and social benefits.
The proposed route is expected to support:
- Around 25,000 new homes
- Approximately 11,500 jobs
- Up to £1.3 billion in wider economic benefits
The project could also help remove an estimated 650,000 car journeys annually, contributing to reduced traffic congestion, lower emissions and improved air quality across west London.
Earlier this year, TfL and its development partners agreed a funding package worth up to £6.65 million to progress the next stage of the project. The funding will support further design work, transport modelling, environmental assessments and public engagement activities.
The investment will also enable TfL to undertake additional technical studies ahead of a key decision in 2027, when partners will determine whether to seek the statutory powers required to construct the scheme.
TfL is working alongside the West London Alliance, the London Boroughs of Hounslow, Ealing, Brent and Barnet, the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation, and Network Rail to advance the proposals and build the case for future investment.
With demand growing for better orbital rail links across the capital, the Hendon to Hounslow proposal represents one of the most significant potential additions to the London Overground network in recent years.
Image credit: iStock
