The Public Transport Liaison Forum met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to discuss a range of transport-related issues affecting Lewisham residents. Key topics included the electrification of bus fleets, improvements to rail services and accessibility, and the management of dockless e-bikes. Decisions were made regarding the ongoing electrification of bus routes and updates were provided on various rail infrastructure projects and service enhancements.

Bus Fleet Electrification and Performance

Bus operators, including Stagecoach London, Go Ahead Buses, and Transport for London (TfL), provided updates on their services. Councillors raised concerns about driver welfare during the recent heatwave, with operators assuring that drivers had access to suitable working conditions and welfare facilities. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the progress of bus fleet electrification. While many routes are already seeing electric buses, challenges remain regarding the physical infrastructure at garages and the ongoing development of battery technology. TfL confirmed that one-third of London's bus fleet is now electric, and all new tenders require an electric element. Lewisham has also received up to £10 million to improve its bus network, with a focus on enhancing bus lanes to speed up services.

Engine idling at bus terminuses was also discussed, with operators confirming policies are in place to switch off engines when not in use and that monitoring tools are employed.

E-bike Usage and Parking Compliance

Representatives from dockless e-bike operators, Lime and Forest, reported a significant increase in usage across London, particularly in Lewisham. They highlighted the positive impact of the recent heatwave and recent strikes on cycling uptake. Both operators are working with council officers on managing parking compliance and have seen success with initiatives like incentivising riders to move overcrowded bikes and implementing penalties for persistent poor behaviour. Lewisham has benefited from the London Parking Fund, with plans for expanded bays in the coming months.

Rail Service Updates and Improvements

Southeastern Railway and Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) provided updates on their services. Southeastern is investing significantly in the southeast network, including re-signalling projects in the Lewisham area and refurbishments of older train stock. They are also seeking support for a business case for new trains, highlighting the age and unreliability of current rolling stock. GTR is implementing a secondary signalling system to minimise disruption and has seen improvements in reliability due to a driver recruitment programme. They are also undertaking internal refurbishments of their train fleets.

Transport for London (TfL) presented updates on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and London Overground. The DLR is receiving 54 new trains to replace its oldest fleet, featuring improvements such as walk-through carriages, live travel information, and USB charging points. TfL is also planning a DLR extension from Beckton to Thamesmead. For the London Overground, capacity improvements are underway, with an increase in train frequency planned. Accessibility enhancements are also being made, including step-free access at Surrey Quays station and plans for a new station at New Bermondsey. TfL is also progressing plans for the extension of the Bakerloo line to Lewisham Town Centre and potentially further to Hayes and Beckenham Junction.

Accessibility and Safety Concerns

Accessibility for disabled passengers was a key theme. Southeastern Railway is investing in station improvements, including step-free access at Hither Green Station. TfL is also focusing on accessibility, with new lifts and escalators at Cutty Sark station and plans for step-free access at Surrey Quays. Concerns were raised about the perception of personal safety on the London Overground, with TfL outlining ongoing campaigns and initiatives to address this, including active bystander training and the use of CCTV.

Other Transport Issues

Questions were raised about the 484 bus route frequency reduction, with TfL explaining it was based on passenger data and remains under review. The emergency diversion of the 343 bus route was discussed, with TfL acknowledging challenges in providing immediate signage for unexpected diversions. Concerns were also raised about abandoned e-bikes at New Cross Gate Station, with TfL outlining their process for monitoring and removal. The reclassification of Grove Park bus station as a bus stand due to larger bus sizes for the Superloop service was noted, with TfL acknowledging the challenge for passengers with accessibility needs.

Councillor Corin Ashwell, Cabinet Member for Environment, Nature, Transport and Climate Action, thanked all participants for their contributions and the information provided.