A BUSY London station used by thousands every day is set to shut for nearly a year, causing disruption for commuters and tourists alike.
Cutty Sark DLR station, one of south London’s busiest stops, will close from May 31 as it undergoes a long-awaited escalator overhaul.
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Originally expected to shut for six months, Transport for London (TfL) has now confirmed the closure will last until spring 2026.
The station, which sees around 7.6 million passengers a year, has been plagued with faulty escalators, forcing people to climb 121 steps or wait for a packed lift.
TfL says it’s simply not possible to carry out the replacement work while keeping the station open.
When it reopens, Cutty Sark will be kitted out with four brand-new, energy-efficient, state-of-the-art escalators.
During the closure, passengers are being advised to use Greenwich station, which is about a 10-minute walk or a short hop on the bus from Cutty Sark.
The station is vital for Greenwich locals and a hotspot for tourists, sitting just minutes from attractions like the National Maritime Museum, the Old Royal Naval College, and the iconic Cutty Sark itself.
Locals have raised concerns about crowding and delays, especially during peak tourist season in summer.
Greenwich Market and the nearby museums attract thousands each weekend, with many relying on the DLR stop for quick access.
Some residents say the closure could also impact small businesses, which rely on footfall from visitors travelling via Cutty Sark station.
Ben Grellier, head of DLR operations at TfL, said: “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.”
“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 the upgrade is complete, TfL says passengers will enjoy “reliable and easier access” to the DLR from the heart of Greenwich.
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