Transport for LondonIdentifying Destination and Route Options
Work on reviewing destination options for the extension concluded in Spring 2007 following technical work as well as stakeholder and public consultation. From the views expressed and appraisal work on the options, Dagenham Dock emerged as the most appropriate terminus option for the extension, with two alternatives to terminate either to the north or to the south of the existing Dagenham Dock station.
Route options developed for the extension have sought to take into account a number of key challenges in the area, which include:
- Securing a route through existing and planned development sites
- Crossing of the River Roding whilst allowing for shipping to continue to use the river
- Crossing of roads, railways and avoiding electricity pylons
- Fixing station locations that fit in with their local environment
- Agreeing a solution that allows a terminus to be built at the Dagenham Dock station area
The route from the existing network at Gallions Reach through to Dagenham Dock has been considered in three sections, a western section from Gallions Reach to the western edge of the proposed Barking Riverside development, a central section through the proposed development and an eastern section from the edge of the development throught to Dagenham Dock. A number of options were considered for each section and appraised by the project team. Stakeholder and public consultation were also taken into account in the appraisal process.
Western section
Three main options were considered for crossing the River Roding, a high bridge or tunnel at the mouth of the River Roding and a low bridge further up the river where the clearance required for navigation drops. A number of possible routes were considered by the project team and discussed in detail with relevant stakeholders.
Low bridge options were dropped at an early stage due to the additional journey time and environmental concerns. The high bridge was later dismissed following stakeholder feedback. A number of tunnel options were considered and a key factor in choosing the final alignment was the existing and planned developments within the Beckton sewage works.
Central Section
The route through the central section was developed with Barking Riverside and a corridor was safeguarded through the development. A number of entry points into the development were considered.
Eastern Section
Three main options were considered for the terminus at Dagenham Dock, one terminating to the south of the existing rail corridor and two terminating to the north. A northern terminus was chosen to provide better interchange with existing rail services and links to the existing community.
The Proposed Route
The proposed route leaves the existing network at Gallions reach station before running around the south of the DLR depot. The route then descends into tunnel and after travelling under the south west corner of the Thames Water site continues under the Thames foreshore. The alignent then emerges to the east of the River Roding and rises up onto viaduct. The extension continues through the Barking Riverside development site, where three stations will be built. Upon leaving the development site the extension crosses the existing rail corridor before High Speed 1 emerges from the tunnel. The route then runs adjacent to the existing rail corridor before terminating at Dagenham Dock station.
The plan below shows route for the Dagenham Dock extension.
