The Government’s new “default yes” policy for housing near train stations and Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ green light for the Thamesmead DLR extension mark a turning point for London. These moves promise to unlock thousands of homes and jobs, from Thamesmead’s 25,000-home vision to station-adjacent sites across the city. For a capital grappling with housing shortages and economic uncertainty, this is welcome news.
Transport connectivity is the lifeblood of London’s economy. It’s not just about easing commutes for high-paid professionals; it’s about supporting key workers and those in low-paid jobs whose work cannot be done remotely. Today, many of these workers endure punishing commutes as they are priced out of central London areas, with some looking at 12-hour shifts bookended by hours of travel.
