The DLR station at Cutty Sark – on the Lewisham line – will be closed to passengers from 31st May until spring 2026 to allow for the complex replacement of escalators. Four new state-of-the-art and more energy-efficient escalators will be installed, replacing the existing ones which have become increasingly unreliable and had to be taken out of use.
Ben Grellier, TfL’s Head of Operations for the DLR, explains more about the planned work: “We know Cutty Sark’s escalators have been causing disruption and frustration for our customers and we would like to thank them for their patience during this period.
“We apologise for any further disruption the station closure may cause, but it is not possible to replace these escalators with the station in operation. Once installed, the new state-of-the-art escalators will provide customers with reliable and easier access to DLR services at the station.”
It is hoped that the installation of the new escalators will provide passengers at this busy DLR station with easier and more reliable access. The replacement of the escalators is a complex job due to the way the existing escalators were installed. By replacing all four at the same time this will minimise disruption. The limited space at the station – which is underground and already has shorter platforms than most other stations – means it is not possible to keep it open during the works.
During the works would be DLR passengers are being advised to use Greenwich instead. This is a 11 minute walk by foot, or can be reached by local bus services. Improved street signage has been installed to help guide people between Cutty Sark and Greenwich stations.
The work has been timed to start on 31st May to make sure the station remains open for the London Marathon. Although it will be open for that busy event, there will be temporary arrangements to minimise crowding.
- In other DLR news, it has been confirmed from 7th April 2025 customers who use pay as you go with contactless or Oyster between Woolwich Arsenal and King George V, and between Greenwich/Cutty Sark and Island Gardens, will have their fares refunded for at least one year. This is part of the agreement for the new Silvertown road tunnel.