The phased introduction of the fleet of new trains for the Docklands Light Railway has resumed with the first unit back in passenger service on Monday 7TH September 2026. This comes following the completion of modifications and a comprehensive programme of testing and assurance which were implemented after an incident last year which saw one of the units fail to stop as planned in wet weather.
Three of the CAF built B23 units had carried passengers in September/October/November 2025 (209, 211, 224) with others having been used on test but their use came to an abrupt end after that incident. Working alongside CAF, the DLR have been looking at ways to prevent something similar from happening and after extensive testing are now confident this will be case.
The majority of the 54 units on order have yet to arrive in London (although are built) and so it will very much be a phased entry into service. The first diagram to see one being used is again on the Woolwich Arsenal to Stratford International route.
Stuart Harvey, TfL’s Chief Capital Officer, said: “We’re pleased that the first of our new DLR trains has returned to customer service following the completion of a thorough programme of modifications, testing and assurance.
“Safety is always our top priority, and we took the decision to remove the trains from service as a precaution while we worked with CAF to investigate the issue and implement a solution.
“I apologise for the delay in reintroducing the trains but am pleased this marks an important milestone in delivering a modern new fleet for the DLR. As we begin the phased reintroduction of the trains, customers will start to benefit from more spacious and accessible journeys, while we continue to monitor performance and introduce further trains into service.”
A number of enhancements have been made to improve train performance in low adhesion conditions. This includes changes to the trains braking systems, the installation of equipment to improve grip between the wheels and the track, and additional measures to reduce the impact of low adhesion conditions in key locations on the network.
TfL are currently working with CAF and its suppliers to finalise the full rollout plan for the new trains. Once more is know they will release further information.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “This is an exciting day for east and south London, as the first new state-of-the-art DLR train enters service.
“These modern new trains are fantastic and will transform travel for millions of Londoners, significantly improving comfort, accessibility and reliability. The additional capacity will also support further growth, particularly in parts of the Royal Docks and the Isle of Dogs where the DLR is the most-used mode of transport, supporting new jobs and homes.
“I’m committed to modernising London’s transport infrastructure, which is vital to delivering quicker, greener and safer journeys that are accessible to all.”