In January 2007 DLR awarded the main construction contract to a joint venture formed between Skanska and VolkerRail (SVRJV).
The SVRJV’s works included:
- Conversion of the former North London line track from Stratford to Canning Town to DLR operation
- Construction of a new DLR link between Stratford and Stratford International
- Conversion of the former North London line stations at Canning Town, West Ham and Stratford to DLR operation
- Construction of brand new stations at Star Lane, Abbey Road, Stratford High Street and Stratford International
- Building of a new station terminus for London Overground services to Richmond – the new platforms opened to the public in April 2009
- Connection of the extension to a new signalling system
- A slight track adjustment to the High Meads Loop freight line
Work along the whole route is now nearly complete, with the extension set to open for public use in Summer 2011. Test trains commenced running on the new line in December 2010 and this initial testing phase has now been successfully completed. The exact date for opening will be communicated to the public closer to opening.
Construction has been completed on a new fly-over viaduct at the Canning Town junction. Located immediately east of Canning Town station, the fly-over will allow trains to operate between Stratford International to Beckton and Woolwich Arsenal, Beckton and Tower Gateway, Woolwich Arsenal and Bank without conflicting paths at Canning Town.