London Transport in 2026: Big changes coming to TFL; here’s what you need to know

LONDON: Londoners, get ready! 2026 is bringing some major changes to how we get around the city. From higher congestion charges to new Tube trains and possible pedestrian streets, here’s a breakdown of what’s coming and how it might affect your daily travel.

CONGESTION CHARGE UPDATES

Starting January 2, the daily congestion charge have gone up from £15 to £18 (if you pay in advance or on the day). If you pay late, within three days, the cost rises to £21. Residents with the discount will still pay just £1.80 a day.

Electric car owners, take note: the old full exemption ends this month. From 2 January, electric cars on Auto Pay get 25 per cent off (£13.50 per day), and electric vans, lorries, and quadricycles get 50 per cent off (£9 per day). Car club vehicles that are electric and picked up and returned to the same bay still get a 100 per cent discount.

TUBE AND DLR UPGRADES

The Piccadilly line is getting 94 brand-new trains starting later in 2026, which means more trains at peak times. Work will include track adjustments, power upgrades, and new CCTV cameras. Expect some weekend closures in January, March, and April.

On the Northern line, trains won’t run after 10 p.m. between Camden Town and Kennington (via Bank) from 12 January until late spring, Mondays to Thursdays.

The Cutty Sark DLR station is closed until spring while escalators are replaced—use Greenwich station or a bus instead. Other weekend closures are planned, so check the TfL Go app before you travel.

OXFORD STREET PEDESTRIAN PLANS

TfL now controls Oxford Street and is looking at making the stretch between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street pedestrian-only. A public consultation runs until 16 January. If approved, work could start in the second half of 2026. This is part of a plan to make the busy shopping street safer and more enjoyable to walk.

ONGOING ROAD WORKS

Lambeth Bridge is being upgraded, with roundabouts replaced by traffic lights, plus better pedestrian and cycle lanes. Some narrow lanes and night closures will continue until June, with the project finishing by summer.

The A23 Streatham Hill improvement project will continue through 2026, with dedicated cycle and bus lanes being added. Work is due to finish in spring 2027, so expect lane restrictions for a while.

Bottom line: London travel is changing, so plan ahead. Whether you drive, cycle, or take the Tube, it’s worth checking routes and charges before you head out.

Web Desk