After delays, new trains finally arrive on the DLR

The new carriages are air-conditioned and have mobile device charging points

The first of 54 new trains for the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is now in service, featuring "the latest technology", according to Transport for London (TfL).

The new carriages are air-conditioned, have mobile device charging points and dedicated spaces for wheelchair users.

They will replace the oldest trains in the DLR fleet, some of which have been in service for more than three decades, with "modern, high-capacity trains designed to meet the needs of a growing city", said TfL.

In July a reduced timetable was introduced on the DLR following a delay to the new trains, which were due to arrive in April 2024.

TfL said the "customer-friendly" trains have walk-through carriages

As more new trains enter service, the full timetable will be restored - all 54 trains are expected to be on the network by the end of 2026, increasing capacity on the DLR by more than 50%, the transport authority said.

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan called the new arrivals "amazing" and said: "This is an exciting day in east and south London."

He added: "The new DLR trains will significantly improve reliability and support growth in new homes and jobs, particularly for Londoners in areas like Stratford, Woolwich Arsenal and the Isle of Dogs.

"I'm committed to modernising infrastructure on London's transport network, which is vital for faster, greener and safer journeys that are accessible for all."

TfL said the "customer-friendly" trains have walk-through carriages with 10% more capacity than the current trains, will display live travel information and also have multi-use areas for pushchairs, bicycles and luggage.

DLR is holding a second consultation on extending the DLR to Thamesmead

In June TfL opened a second public consultation on plans to extend the DLR across the River Thames from east to south-east London.

The proposals would see the service extend from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead via the Beckton Riverside.

It would include two new stations - one at Beckton Riverside and another at Thamesmead Waterfront - with a tunnel built under the River Thames to connect the two.

TfL claims journey times from Thamesmead could be cut to about 25 minutes to Stratford and 35 minutes to Tottenham Court Road.

Subject to planning approval and funding, construction could begin in the late 2020s, with services running by the early 2030s.

Earlier this week it was announced that Thamesmead been shortlisted by the government for the construction of a new town.