West London Orbital Railway Wins Support from 186 Businesses and Organisations |
Plans for a new London Overground railway linking Acton with major destinations across West London have received backing from 186 businesses and organisations, adding momentum to calls for government investment.
The proposed West London Orbital Railway would create new passenger connections between Hounslow and Hendon, serving Acton Central and South Acton along the way. Supporters believe the project could improve access to jobs, education and transport interchanges without requiring passengers to travel into central London.
However, while funding has been agreed for further planning and design, the railway has not yet secured the money needed for construction.
What Would the Railway Mean for Acton?For residents in Acton, the most immediate benefit would be improved connections to destinations such as Old Oak Common, Brent Cross and other employment centres across West and North West London.
The proposed service could provide up to six trains per hour through Acton Central and South Acton. The railway would make use of existing rail corridors, including sections currently used for freight, with new stations and infrastructure improvements proposed elsewhere along the route. Supporters argue that better orbital transport connections would make journeys between outer London neighbourhoods easier, reducing the need for lengthy changes or journeys through central London.
Transport for London estimates that the wider project could support up to 25,000 new homes and 11,500 jobs, although these are projected benefits rather than confirmed developments.
Major Employers Back the ProposalThe latest show of support comes from a joint letter coordinated by the West London Alliance. Among the 186 signatories are major employers and institutions including Sky, Octopus Energy, SEGRO, Imperial College London, the University of West London and Brentford FC. The organisations are urging the government to work with Transport for London and local authorities to secure the investment required to deliver the scheme.
A funding package of £6.65 million has already been agreed for the next stage of design, engineering and business-case development. That money does not cover construction, and there is currently no confirmed opening date.
Acton Level Crossings Raise ConcernsWhile improved rail services could benefit passengers, the plans have also raised local concerns about possible permanent closures of level crossings at Churchfield Road and Bollo Lane. These crossings are important routes for people travelling through Acton, and changes could affect drivers, pedestrians and local businesses.
The proposals remain subject to consultation and further assessment. Residents have until 18 November 2026 to submit their views through Transport for London's consultation. Find out more and have your say — TfL West London Orbital consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a proposed London Overground route connecting Hounslow and Hendon through West and North West London, using existing railway corridors and new infrastructure.
Yes, the current proposals include services through Acton Central and South Acton. Has the railway been approved for construction?No. Funding is available for further development work, but construction funding has not been secured.
The proposals include potential permanent closures at Churchfield Road and Bollo Lane. These changes are still being considered through consultation.
Transport for London is accepting comments until 18 November 2026.
Sources and Further InformationWest London Alliance — Joint letter supporting the railway:
Your Acton BID — Consultation information:
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