Superloop route SL3 sees electric buses start to replace New Routemasters
Brand new electric double decker buses have begun running on Superloop route SL3 between Thamesmead and Bromley displacing New Routemasters.
More buses will gradually be introduced in coming days and weeks as part of seven year contract awarded by Transport for London.
New Routemasters have operated service SL3 since 24 February 2024 and announcement of electric replacements made in April 2024.
They were always a short term measure and problems were apparent early on, with their long wheelbases struggling with tight turns such as at the top of Knee Hill.
Bexley Council weren’t keen to adjust certain junctions which has also meant a lengthy detour though a recent report on how TfL’s annual Local Implementation Plan funds will be spent did include design changes to benefit Superloop routes.
That detour took buses close to Bexley village which then saw calls for a stop – though it was only roadworks then the New Routemaster’s issues that saw them head that way to begin with.
Electric buses on SL3 follow the recent commencement of Superloop route SL4 with electric double deckers. The single decker SL5 will also convert to electric double decker operation after trees along the route preventing double deck operation were cut back.
Excellent news. The routemaster buses are better for main roads rather than narrower side roads as routemasters are longer than other conventional double deckers.
I still think there should an an additional X122 route running in addition to route 122 between Plumstead and Crystal Palace around the South Circular. The routemasters may be suitable for that.
This should mean that the SL3 will soon be able to follow the intended route towards Bromley via Penhill Road and stop that idiot Louis French on his bizarre campaign to get the SL3 to stop in Bexley Village once and for all.
Strange how he was totally against the introduction of the Superloop but now they are here and he saw them going past the war memorial he wants them!
The Superloop has expanded since it began operation few years ago and now serves many areas around Greater London. With more routes to be added throughout this year and next year.