New London Overground links a step closer for Brent

Brent residents could benefit from new train links within the decade as plans for the West London Orbital Overground line move forward.

Transport for London, four West London boroughs and the Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation have agreed to commit up to £6.65 million to progress the next phase of the rail scheme.

Proposals link Hendon and Hounslow with a fully accessible London Overground line that would provide ten new unique interchanges with rail and underground links, including four brand new stations. This pot of funding will support the design of stations and other infrastructure, including a public consultation ahead of a 2027/28 decision on seeking statutory powers.

The proposed new London Overground route would transform travel across the borough and West London, creating a new passenger link on under-used freight lines with new stations at Neasden and Harlesden and up to six trains running along the line per hour.

The route would also link Brent directly to key destinations including Old Oak Common, Acton, Brentford and Hounslow. It would also connect with major interchange hubs on the Elizabeth line, London Underground, National Rail and HS2.

Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said: “The Elizabeth line proved the point: build the connections and the growth will follow the line. The West London Orbital is a once-in-a-generation chance to do the same for Brent and our region.

“Four postcodes along this route in Brent are amongst the most deprived in London, yet they sit on the doorstep of HS2 and Old Oak Common. With the right connections, places like Harlesden and Neasden can become a new economic powerhouse for our borough, unlocking thousands of jobs, new homes, and millions of pounds of investment for local people for decades to come.”

This next phase will look closely at station designs and how services would operate alongside existing rail traffic. It will also assess environmental impacts and forecast future passenger demand, with a view to replacing around 650,000 car trips each year.

Funding for the next phase is being shared equally between TfL and local partners, including the council.

Public consultation on the West London Orbital is expected later this year. Brent residents will have the chance to share their views on stations, services and how the new railway could best serve local neighbourhoods.