Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed the next major step in improving bus performance across the capital with the announcement of funding for Haringey, Lewisham and Southwark, as part of the Better Bus Partnerships programme. The aim of the programme is for TfL to work in partnership with boroughs to transform the bus network by investing in a range of infrastructure and operational interventions that will improve journey times, reliability and customer experience.
Haringey, Lewisham and Southwark have been chosen following a competitive bidding process, which was open to all boroughs. The successful boroughs will each receive up to £10million over an expected four-year period, with funding released in stages based on the progress of each programme.
The selected schemes aim to cut bus journey times by up to 30 per cent – which will make bus travel more attractive, increase overall bus ridership and offer the bus as a preferred alternative to travel by private car. Investment proposals include:
new bus priority measures to improve journey times
better management of roadworks to reduce delays to buses
bus stop improvements to make them more pleasant places where it’s safer to wait and easier to change modes of transport
street improvements to make it easier and safer to walk to bus stops and stations
London boroughs are responsible for around 95 per cent of streets across the capital and are vital partners in making them safer, accessible and reliable for all. They play a key role in helping to ensure that the capital’s bus service is comfortable and easy for everyone to use, offering attractive journey times and providing the connections people need.
TfL will now work closely with the successful boroughs throughout 2026 on design and planning, with delivery expected to commence in 2027. Full details of the schemes will be shared by the boroughs in the coming months, subject to consultation and engagement.
Lorna Murphy, TfL’s Director of Buses, said: “Thank you to everyone who took the time to put bids forward. It is encouraging to see boroughs putting bus services at the heart of their communities to support sustainable transport for all and a safer, cleaner, greener London. I am delighted that we can work together with London boroughs to invest in bus priority and bus infrastructure. We now look forward to working closely with Haringey, Lewisham and Southwark over the coming years to deliver their bus schemes as part of the Better Bus Partnerships programme.”
Councillor James McAsh, Southwark Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets & Waste, said: “We’re creating a cleaner, greener Southwark where it’s easier for people to walk, cycle, and use public transport. Good bus services are vital in our borough where most households don’t have a car, and we’re excited to be part of the Better Bus Partnership. We look forward to working closely with our local community, Transport for London and neighbours to transform bus journeys in Southwark, as part of our wider Streets for People work to reclaim street space for community benefit.”
