Bexley Council has formally endorsed a sustainable transport strategy aimed at encouraging greener travel options across the borough. The decision was made during a Places Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
The strategy, developed by a dedicated task and finish group, acknowledges the car as the primary mode of transport in Bexley but seeks to provide residents with more choices to reduce congestion and improve air quality. Key recommendations include lobbying for extensions to the DLR to Belvedere and the Elizabeth Line to Gravesend, as well as urging Transport for London (TfL) to review the SL3 Superloop route to potentially include a stop in Bexley Village.
The committee also supported calls for Southeastern to replace its outdated Networker trains with newer, more accessible, and cost-effective models. Furthermore, the council will continue to advocate for zero-emission buses on routes serving Bexley, while also acknowledging current challenges with the electric bus fleet, such as breakdowns and road damage due to their weight.
To encourage cycling and walking, the strategy proposes consulting residents on specific improvements to existing networks. These improvements aim to ensure well-maintained pavements, clearly defined and direct routes, enhanced lighting, and safe crossing points. For cycling, the council will continue to utilise Local Implementation Plan funding to provide cycle training (Bikeability Levels 1, 2, and 3), enabling residents to use cycling as a form of transport. The strategy also mentions exploring safer cycle ways, including a previous Mini-Holland bid to create a cycle network that utilised the borough's dense network of quiet streets, and a route between Bexleyheath and Erith, based on the mini-Holland proposal, which is currently in development utilising LIP monies. The timeline for resident consultation on these specific improvements is not yet specified.
Regarding sustainable car use, Bexley Council plans to expand on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging provision, particularly in residential areas lacking off-street parking. Efforts will also be made to facilitate EV charging across public footways and to invest in fast-charging infrastructure. The promotion of car club schemes to reduce private vehicle ownership and the integration of sustainable transport hubs in new developments were also highlighted.
The council also committed to continuing its lobbying efforts with the Metropolitan Police for increased resources to tackle speeding and dangerous driving.
Supplementary Report to Agenda Item 8 17th-Mar-2026 19.30 Places Overview and Scrutiny Committee
