Olympia Funds Extra Mildmay Line Services in Deal With TfL to Ease Peak-Time Crowding

Transport for London is introducing additional peak-time services on the Mildmay line later this month after securing funding support from Olympia as passenger demand continues to rise on the route.

From 18 May 2026, new weekday shuttle services will operate between Clapham Junction and Shepherd’s Bush, delivering a significant boost in capacity during the busiest commuting periods.

The enhanced timetable will add three extra trains during the morning peak and five additional services in the evening peak, increasing passenger capacity by around 20% in the morning and 33% in the afternoon on the busy section of the line.

Under the revised arrangement, shuttle services to Shepherd’s Bush will depart from Platform 17 at Clapham Junction, while existing Mildmay line services continuing towards Stratford will remain on Platform 1.

TfL said the changes are aimed at reducing overcrowding, improving reliability and shortening journey times for passengers travelling through west London.

The additional services are being delivered through a five-year funding agreement between TfL and Olympia, the historic west London events and entertainment venue currently undergoing a major transformation project.

Passengers using the route will benefit from improved interchange opportunities at Shepherd’s Bush, including easier access to the Central line, Westfield London and Olympia itself.

Olympia is currently preparing for the next phase of its redevelopment programme, which includes new entertainment venues, hotels, restaurants, bars and public spaces as part of a wider regeneration of the 140-year-old site.

The project will also introduce the British Airways Theatre and British Airways ARC music venue, alongside what developers describe as London’s largest new theatre opening in more than 50 years.

Rory O’Neill, General Manager of London Overground at TfL, said the agreement would help improve passenger experience on one of the network’s increasingly busy corridors.

“From 18 May, customers travelling on the Mildmay line will benefit from more frequent peak time services between Clapham Junction and Shepherd’s Bush,” he said.

“The additional trains will provide extra space during the busiest times of day, helping to reduce crowding and make journeys quicker and more comfortable.

“This agreement with Olympia allows us to respond to growing demand and improve connections to key destinations for customers using this part of the network.”

Michael Volkert, Chief Executive of Olympia Estates, said improved transport connectivity was critical as the venue prepares to attract increasing visitor numbers.

“As the all-new Olympia prepares to welcome visitors from across London and beyond, ensuring a straightforward journey here is a key priority,” he said.

“Alongside our strong local transport links, the additional services on the Mildmay line will make reaching Olympia’s entertainment venues, hotels, restaurants, bars and iconic halls more convenient than ever.”

TfL has advised passengers to check live travel information using TfL Go, Journey Planner and station departure screens ahead of travel as the new services are introduced.