New Mildmay Line Operator Pledges to Boost Peak Service
First Rail taking over London Overground franchise next May
A Mildmay line train. Picture: Network Rial
December 10, 2025
Transport for London (TfL) has named First Rail London Limited (FRLL), a subsidiary of FirstGroup PLC, as its preferred new operator for the London Overground network.
Among the pledges it has made to secure the contract were commitments to significantly enhancing services on the Mildmay line which serves stations such as Gunnersbury, South Acton, Acton Central, Kensington Olympia and West Brompton. The eight-year contract is set to begin on Sunday 3 May 2026, replacing current operator Arriva Rail London, and includes an option to extend for up to two additional years.
Under the new concession, FRLL will deliver a package of improvements aimed at increasing capacity, improving reliability, and enhancing customer experience across the network. The Mildmay line will see extra peak-time trains introduced from May 2026, including shuttle services between Clapham Junction and Shepherd’s Bush.
TfL confirmed that targeted infrastructure upgrades on the Mildmay line will accompany the service boost, with the aim of improving performance and resilience.
David Thomas, Head of Concession for London Overground, said the new contract “puts customers at its heart,” and highlighted FRLL’s plans to work closely with TfL and partners such as Network Rail and train manufacturer Alstom to maintain high standards of service.
In addition to the Mildmay line upgrades, FRLL will also increase train frequency on the Windrush line from December 2026, with up to 18 trains per hour running through its core section. Other improvements include upgraded help points and CCTV, expanded digital travel information screens, and continued work to improve accessibility in collaboration with advocacy groups.
Graham Sutherland, Chief Executive Officer of FirstGroup, said, “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 standstill period for the contract award is currently in effect and will conclude on Thursday 18 December 2025.
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