Transport for London (TfL) has announced that London’s Overground lines will be given new names and colours for the first time.
This historic change aims to make it easier for customers to navigate the network, thus helping to grow ridership.
Indeed, research by TfL has shown that the London Overground network can be confusing for some customers to navigate, and it would be easier if it was not simply one colour and name.
As a result, London’s Tube map is set to be updated to provide each route with a new line name and colour.
“The London Overground is one of the most successful railways in the country and has grown to carry more than three million customers a week. The network, which has grown quite considerably since 2007, is currently shown as a complicated network of orange on route maps. This can be confusing for customers less familiar with the network and could be a barrier for some wanting to use the London Overground.
“These new names and line colours will simplify the maps and routes for our customers, and it is hoped it will encourage more people to make the most of our services. It is also a great way to tell the stories of some important parts of London's cultural diversity.”
The new line names and colours are:
- The Lioness line from Euston to Watford Junction will be shown as yellow parallel lines on the map
- The Mildmay line between Stratford and Richmond/Clapham Junction will be blue parallel lines on the map
- The Windrush line from Highbury & Islington to Clapham Junction/New Cross/Crystal Palace/West Croydon will be red parallel lines on the map
- The Weaver line from Liverpool Street to Cheshunt/Enfield Town/Chingford will be maroon parallel lines on the map
- The Suffragette line between Gospel Oak and Barking Riverside will be green parallel lines on the map
- The Liberty line from Romford to Upminster will be grey parallel lines on the map
The new names were chosen through engagement with customers, stakeholders, historians, industry experts and local communities to celebrate London’s diverse history.
“This is a hugely exciting moment, transforming how we think about London's transport network.
“Giving each of the Overground lines distinct colours and identities will make it simpler and easier for passengers to get around. In re-imagining London's tube map, we are also honouring and celebrating different parts of London's unique local history and culture.”
