Transport for London (TfL) says the Mildmay line will be getting extra peak-time trains from May 2026 under a new contract.

Set to run for eight years, TfL is preparing to award the new London Overground operator contract to First Rail London Limited (FRLL), a subsidiary of FirstGroup PLC.

FRLL will take over from the current operator, Arriva Rail London, on Sunday, 3 May 2026, and will work closely with TfL to deliver "further enhancements for customers" across the network.

TfL says that under the new plans, FRLL will introduce a range of service and operational improvements designed to enhance customer experience and support staff.

These include:

• Extra trains during peak hours, with shuttle services between Clapham Junction and Shepherd's Bush.
• Targeted upgrades on the Mildmay line infrastructure to boost performance for customers.
• More frequent trains on the Windrush line from December 2026, with services through the core section increasing to 18 trains per hour.
• A 'relentless' focus on safety for customers and staff, including upgraded help points and CCTV.

In addition, FRLL is set to invest in people and technology to improve reliability, manage disruption, and provide better customer information.

The company will also expand digital screens to display live travel updates for stations and nearby interchange services, such as buses, across all operator-managed stations.

First Rail says it will introduce targeted upgrades to the Mildmay line (credit: Richmond Nub News).

David Thomas, Head of Concession for London Overground, said: "London Overground is one of the most popular parts of our transport network, and this new concession puts customers at its heart, helping make the service even better.

"We're delighted to welcome First Rail London Limited as our preferred new partner and look forward to working together to deliver a range of benefits for everyone who uses the network."

Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer, added: "The London Overground has greatly improved connectivity in London, with around four million passengers now using the service every week.

"We are delighted to have been named as the preferred operator for the service from next May and look forward to welcoming employees who will be joining the Group, and to play our part in the success of this vital rail network."