A recent independent survey reveals that a significant majority of Harrow’s residents and businesses are in favor of Transport for London’s (TfL) proposed Bakerloo Line Upgrade and Extension. The project aims to enhance connectivity from Harrow to Bromley, addressing long-standing transport gaps in southeast London.
The survey, conducted by Survation and Norstat and commissioned by Central London Forward in collaboration with Southwark Council, Lewisham Council, and Business for Bakerloo, indicates that 75% of Harrow residents support the upgrade and extension, with only 2% opposing. Among Harrow businesses, support is even higher at 84%.
Councillor Paul Osborn, Leader of Harrow Council, said: “Like many of our businesses and residents, I regularly use the Bakerloo Line and support its upgrade and extension. It’s used by thousands of our residents who start at Harrow and Wealdstone and Kenton stations or use it in Central London. The upgrade would mean more journeys, more capacity and more frequent and better trains. 84% of businesses and 75% of residents in Harrow support this and almost 70% of businesses said that the upgrade to the line would positively impact their business.”
The proposed extension is a “shovel-ready” infrastructure project poised to unlock homes, jobs, and economic growth across London and the UK. By extending the Bakerloo Line, TfL aims to improve connectivity in areas currently underserved by the Underground network, such as parts of Southwark and the entirety of Lewisham and Bromley.
The current Bakerloo line fleet is 53 years old. CREDIT: Back the Bakerloo
The survey highlights that 57% of residents believe the upgrade and extension would enhance their ability to travel to work, while 45% feel it would open up new employment opportunities. Additionally, 45% of residents indicated they would consider using their cars less frequently, suggesting potential environmental benefits through reduced emissions and improved air quality.
Better connecting Northwest and Southeast London could stimulate growth for businesses, with 63% stating the project could enable business expansion and 52% agreeing it could lead to future growth. Enhanced connectivity is also expected to increase footfall and productivity.
Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, also noted the urgency of the project: “The Bakerloo Line is an iconic part of London’s underground, its history, and its culture. It connects our great landmarks, from Wembley to the West End, and is a vital part of economic infrastructure – with one in six jobs in London within a 12-minute walk of a station. But the significant challenges facing the ageing line – and its 10 stations that fall in the borough of Brent – put it at risk of total failure.
“We’re working hard to regenerate every corner of our borough, unlocking growth and connecting our communities better than ever before. But we can’t do this alone. It’s time to breathe life back into the Bakerloo.”
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