FirstGroup selected as TfL’s preferred operator for London Overground contract

Overground train leaving Bethnal Green station on the rebranded Weaver Line.

Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that First Rail London Limited (FRLL), a subsidiary of FirstGroup PLC, is its preferred operator for the next London Overground contract, due to begin on Sunday 3 May 2026.

The eight-year contract will replace Arriva Rail London, with an option to extend by up to two additional years, and will focus on improving performance, capacity and customer experience across the expanding network.

TfL said the new agreement “puts customers at its heart”, with FRLL expected to deliver timetable enhancements, new customer-information tools and closer partnership working with industry stakeholders.

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.”

Graham Sutherland, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer, added: “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.”

Planned improvements and services

FRLL will introduce service uplifts soon after taking over, starting with extra peak-time trains on the Mildmay line from May 2026, including new peak-hour shuttles between Clapham Junction and Shepherd’s Bush. The Windrush line will also see service frequency increase to 18 trains per hour through the core section from December 2026, designed to cut waiting times and improve operational flexibility.

Further commitments include upgraded help points and CCTV, targeted infrastructure works on the Mildmay line and investment in frontline staff training and new information systems. FRLL will also work closely with Network Rail and Alstom, the manufacturer of the London Overground trains, to maintain performance standards and support asset reliability.

Other customer-focused initiatives will expand digital information screens at operator-managed stations to show live multimodal interchange, including local bus services, and continue accessibility improvements in collaboration with passenger groups.