The Autumn Budget 2025 has confirmed what many in our community have long hoped for: the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) will be extended to Thamesmead. This landmark decision, backed by Transport for London (TfL), the Greater London Authority (GLA), and the Government, represents a generational investment in connectivity, regeneration, and opportunity for South East London.

For our Trust, which proudly serves two schools in Thamesmead and one in Plumstead, the announcement is more than a transport upgrade - it is a catalyst for educational, social, and economic transformation.

What the DLR Extension Means for Our Schools

• Improved Access for Families and Staff - Thamesmead has long been the only London postcode without a direct rail service. The arrival of the DLR will dramatically improve accessibility for families, staff, and visitors to our schools. Reduced travel times and better connections will make our schools more attractive to prospective families and staff, strengthening recruitment and retention.
• Enhanced Opportunities for Students - Reliable transport links open doors. Our students will gain easier access to cultural, academic, and professional opportunities across London. By connecting our young people to museums, universities, and work placements, the DLR will enrich experiences and fuel aspirations.
• Supporting Regeneration and Growth - Thamesmead is already recognised as one of London’s largest regeneration areas, with plans for new homes, jobs, schools, culture, and green spaces. The DLR extension underlines this potential, ensuring our schools are at the heart of a growing, thriving community. For Plumstead, the ripple effects of regeneration in neighbouring Thamesmead will bring new families, investment, and opportunities.

A Trust Perspective: Building Resilient Communities

As educators, we know that infrastructure shapes lives. The Elizabeth Line has already transformed Woolwich, and we are excited to see similar momentum in Thamesmead. The DLR extension will not only connect our schools more effectively to the rest of London but also reinforce our mission to deliver inclusive, high-quality education in communities that are growing and evolving.

We welcome the Government’s recognition of Thamesmead’s potential. Our schools stand ready to play a central role in this exciting new chapter.

Looking Ahead

Tim Plumb, CEO of PolyMAT, comments: ‘The Trust celebrates this funding commitment as a decisive step toward a brighter future for Thamesmead. For our students, the DLR extension is not just about trains – it is about connection, ambition, and possibility. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Thamesmead: the DLR extension will not only transform transport links but also unlock new possibilities for our students, families, and staff. With this investment, our schools will be better connected, our families better supported, and our young people better prepared to thrive in a changing London. This is about building futures, not just stations.’

The Trust celebrates this funding commitment as a decisive step toward a brighter future for Thamesmead. We look forward to engaging with families, staff, and community partners to maximise the opportunities this project will bring. For our students, the DLR extension is not just about trains - it is about connection, ambition, and possibility.