Cutty Sark DLR Station Upgrade: New Escalators Coming Soon

Cutty Sark DLR station will close from 31 May until next spring to install four new energy-efficient escalators. This will improve passenger access, with Greenwich station and local buses serving as alternatives.

Cutty Sark DLR station is set to undergo a significant upgrade with the installation of four brand-new, energy-efficient escalators. The much-needed replacements will provide commuters and visitors with more straightforward and reliable access to and from the station. However, due to the complexity of the installation, the station will temporarily close from Saturday, 31 May, until next spring.

Alternative Travel Options

During the closure, passengers are advised to use nearby Greenwich station, just an 11-minute walk away, or rely on local bus services. Improved street-level signage has been installed to assist commuters, guiding them seamlessly between Cutty Sark and Greenwich stations.

Why the Upgrade is Necessary

The existing escalators had become increasingly unreliable, eventually being taken out of service as they were beyond economical repair. The replacement process is particularly complex due to the original installation method. Given limited space constraints, replacing all four escalators simultaneously is the most efficient way to minimise disruption to customers.

Ben Grellier, TfL's Head of Operations for the DLR, acknowledged the inconvenience, stating: "We know Cutty Sark's escalators have been causing disruption and frustration for our customers, and we would like to thank them for their patience during this period."

He explained, "We apologise for any further disruption caused by the station closure, but replacing these escalators while keeping the station open is impossible. Once installed, the new state-of-the-art escalators will provide customers with reliable and easier access to DLR services."

Len Duvall, Assembly Member for Greenwich and Lewisham, welcomed the improvements, saying: "Whilst the temporary station closure is unfortunate, I welcome the news that TfL has secured funding for a lasting resolution to the problems of the Cutty Sark station escalators. I look forward to seeing the station reopened and fully functioning."

A Technical and Environmental Upgrade

Escalators on TFL stations are designed to withstand heavy daily use. They operate in both directions for up to 20 hours a day and carry millions of passengers annually. Each weighs approximately 40 tonnes and contains around 15,000 moving parts.

The new escalators at Cutty Sark station will feature more efficient motors and drive systems. Additionally, they will run in energy-saving mode when not in use, reducing power consumption and contributing to TfL's ongoing efforts to decarbonise the network.

Project Timeline and Considerations

Work on the escalator replacement will commence on 31 May, ensuring no disruption during the London Marathon. Unique entry and exit arrangements will be in place to minimise crowding at the station during the event, with details to be publicised closer to the date. Commuters are encouraged to check before they travel.

Looking Ahead

This project is part of TfL's broader effort to improve infrastructure across the network. The previous escalators were initially installed when the station was built under the City Greenwich Lewisham (CGL) Rail Private Finance Initiative (PFI). TfL assumed maintenance responsibilities in 2021 and, after extensive assessments and repair attempts, determined that full replacement was the best long-term solution.

When Cutty Sark reopens next spring, commuters can expect a more efficient, modern, and environmentally friendly station.