TfL Commissioner Apologies Over Gallows Corner Delays During Havering Visit.

Transport for London’s (TfL) Commissioner, Andy Lord, visited Havering last week to meet council leaders and discuss the borough’s biggest transport challenges – from Gallows Corner delays to new Superloop bus routes.

The meeting, held at Havering Town Hall on Wednesday 29 October, was chaired by Cllr Gillian Ford, Deputy Leader of the Council, and Cllr Barry Mugglestone, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport.

During the session, the Commissioner gave an update on TfL’s finances and future funding, while the Council raised major concerns about the ongoing disruption caused by the Gallows Corner project and pushed for further improvements across the borough’s transport network.

The Commissioner apologised on behalf of TfL to residents and businesses for the continued disruption caused by the long-running Gallows Corner flyover works. Although unable to provide a completion date, he confirmed that TfL would release a full programme update and firm reopening timeline next week.

The Council made it clear that it will continue to hold both TfL and Essex and Suffolk Water to account to ensure the project is completed swiftly and efficiently.

Discussions also covered the launch of the new Superloop SL12 route from Rainham to Romford. While no rollout date was confirmed due to ongoing procurement and staffing issues, the Council reiterated its strong support for the new rapid bus link and urged TfL to prioritise its delivery.

The Council also raised the need for more electric buses, better north-south connections, and improved links to Queen’s and King George Hospitals.

The Council renewed its call for funding to revive the Romford Ringroad Liveable Neighbourhood scheme, which would replace unpopular subways with safer street-level crossings. The Commissioner agreed to revisit the project and explore funding opportunities.

Other key points included discussions on the Beam Park Linear Park and Beam Park Station, which are seen as vital for unlocking new homes and business opportunities. TfL also offered to support Havering in lobbying the Department for Transport and Uber for a potential Thames Clipper extension to Rainham.

Following the visit, Cllr Barry Mugglestone said:

“It was great to host the Commissioner here at the Town Hall, and I thank Andy for making the trip to Havering to meet with us.”

“It was very disappointing there was still no update on a programme end date for Gallows Corner. We once again reiterated the impact of these delays and continued to push for a firm timeline for the reopening of the junction. We will wait eagerly for the promised update next week.”

“While we appreciate the complexities of this project – given the strategic importance of Gallows Corner to the borough’s transport network, we will continue to hold all parties to account for their role in delivering this project efficiently and transparently.”

“On other topics – we had healthy and meaningful discussions. I was happy to see that the Commissioner was keen to hear about the transport needs and aspirations of Havering and its residents. While there were no promises made in terms of future projects and funding – this visit served as a useful springboard for further conversations with TfL and will lead to a much more productive and collaborative relationship with TfL going forward.”

“Whether it be Gallows Corner, new Superloop routes, step-free access for Hornchurch station or the much needed improvements to transport services across Havering – we will continue to lobby and fight on behalf of residents to ensure Havering is not forgotten and stays firmly on the TfL map.”

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