TfL to Award London Overground Operator Contract to First Rail London

Transport for London (TfL) has announced its intention to award the London Overground operator contract to First Rail London Limited (FRLL), a subsidiary of FirstGroup PLC.

The contract will begin on 3 May 2026 and run for an initial eight years, with an option for a two-year extension at TfL’s discretion.

First Rail London will take over from the current operator, Arriva Rail London, and work with TfL to deliver improvements across the network.

David Thomas, Head of Concession for London Overground, said:

London Overground is one of the most popular parts of our transport network, and this new concession puts customers at its heart, helping make the service even better. We're delighted to welcome First Rail London Limited as our preferred new partner and look forward to working together to deliver a range of benefits for everyone who uses the network.

The concession agreement requires FRLL to manage train services and stations, while TfL retains responsibility for revenue risk and service specification. The contract is estimated to be worth around 3 billion GBP over the eight-year term, plus a potential extension.

The planned enhancements include additional peak-time trains on the Mildmay line from May 2026, including shuttle services between Clapham Junction and Shepherd’s Bush. Services on the Windrush line will also increase from December 2026, with 18 trains per hour running through the core section, aimed at reducing waiting times and increasing flexibility for passengers.

The contract emphasises safety, reliability and accessibility, supported by investment in staff and technology. Upgraded help points, CCTV, and infrastructure improvements on the Mildmay line are expected to support these objectives. FRLL will also work with partners, including Network Rail and train manufacturer Alstom to maintain operational performance and customer service standards.

Customer information systems will be expanded, with digital screens at stations providing live updates and details of nearby interchange services. Accessibility initiatives will continue in partnership with advocacy groups.

Graham Sutherland, Chief Executive Officer of FirstGroup said:

The London Overground has greatly improved connectivity in London, with around four million passengers now using the service every week. We are delighted to have been named as the preferred operator for the service from next May and look forward to welcoming employees who will be joining the Group and to play our part in the success of this vital rail network.

The London Overground network, launched in 2007, covers six routes and 113 stations across all nine fare zones, spanning 100 miles of railway. TfL retains revenue risk and some cost risk, including electricity pricing and regulatory charges, while FRLL is responsible for operational delivery, customer service, and managing ticketless travel.

As part of FirstGroup’s sustainability strategy, FRLL will continue to operate the electric train fleet and pursue initiatives to reduce environmental impact, in line with TfL’s target of a 90% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.