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London Overground routes are soon to be formally given new names to help passengers navigate the network more easily. ANDY RODEN talks to TfL Head of Design JON HUNTER about how they came about – and what the benefits are
It is fair to say the decision in February 2024 to give London Overground routes distinctive names generated strong reactions, but there is clear logic to Transport for London’s proposals – and benefits are already being felt.
TfL’s Head of Design Jon Hunter explains that from London Overground’s start in 2007, when it began operating the former Silverlink Metro routes from Watford Junction, Richmond, Clapham Junction, Stratford and Barking, the network has grown significantly (the East London line was added in 2010, with further additions since including some services from Liverpool Street), making wayfinding increasingly difficult for passengers unfamiliar with the network.
‘Giving the routes names helps route planning with easy mnemonics – it felt like we had to provide some degree of separate identity as a customer benefit as the network has expanded’ says Mr Hunter.
A massive and award-winning consultation took place across the London Overground network involving…
