Plans for a new orbital railway line linking north and west London have been given the thumbs up by an economic board and made a significant step towards becoming a reality.

The West London Orbital Railway would consist of two new lines one running from West Hampstead to Hounslow and another running from Hendon to Isleworth via Brent Cross.

A study commissioned by the West London Economic Prosperity Board, (WLEPB) made up of members from the boroughs of Barnet, Brent, Ealing Harrow and Hounslow, gave the West Orbital Railway proposals approval on September 21.

The West London Orbital Railway would see the recommissioning of the current Dudding Hill line, used for freight trains, for passenger use.

The first part of the Dudding Hill line would run north from Old Oak Common with stops at:

The second branch of the route would link Old Oak common to Brent Cross, Cricklewood and West Hampstead in one direction and Hendon and Mill Hill Broadway in the other.

The feasibility report also examined another route that would link Hendon to Hounslow with stops at:

  • Hendon
  • Staples Corner
  • Cricklewood
  • West Hampstead
  • Neasden
  • Harlesden
  • Victoria Road
  • Acton Central
  • South Acton
  • Kew Bridge
  • Syon Lane
  • Isleworth
  • Hounslow

The report found both route proposals to be "value for money" and paved the way for further talks between the WLEPB, Transport for London and the Greater London Assembly towards realising the route, which is due to be completed in 2029.

Brent councillor and West London Orbital Railway campaigner, Lia Colacicco, said: "I had to pinch myself – I have spent eight years campaigning for the West London Orbital Railway, and now it actually stands a good chance of becoming a reality.

"The feasibility study commissioned shows that the new line will provide excellent value for money, and link regeneration sites at Wembley, Park Royal and Brent Cross."

"I addressed the committee, chaired by the leader of Brent Council Cllr Muhammed Butt - and pointed out that as well as linking to HS2 and Crossrail, the new line will link the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Metropolitan and Overground lines within five stops, eliminating the need to travel into central London for connections.

"The Board are keen to get on with the new route before the suggested 2029 date."

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