Protecting children from harm online is a priority for the Government and for me.
Work is already underway to create a safer digital environment for young people, including closing loopholes in the Online Safety Act that allowed illegal AI-generated images and introducing new powers to respond quickly to emerging technologies.
You may have seen that the Government is also exploring – and will soon consult on – proposals to restrict or ban social media use for under-16s, alongside other measures to improve online safety.
I am seeking the views of residents across Erith and Thamesmead constituency on this important issue. Your feedback will help ensure local voices are represented in my discussions with the Government.
The survey takes less than five minutes to complete and is open to parents, teachers, carers, and all residents.
Please note that a separate, pupil-specific survey has been created for young people in Erith and Thamesmead. This survey is being shared directly with schools and youth groups to ensure appropriate safeguarding arrangements.
If you are a young person who has not received the survey through your school, or a parent/carer requesting access, please contact my office at abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk, and we will be happy to provide the details.
Your views will play a meaningful role in shaping my engagement with the government on this issue, and I look forward to hearing your perspective.
https://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/WhatsApp-Image-2023-07-25-at-11.06.40-e1695140129676.jpeg412920Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2026-02-20 09:50:002026-02-20 12:07:15Share Your Voice: Online Safety for Young People in Erith and Thamesmead
Endometriosis is one of the least understood health conditions, yet it impacts the lives of far too many women.
Too many face long delays in diagnosis, limited support, and a lack of awareness about the condition across society. More must be done to improve understanding among the public, healthcare professionals, and in the workplace so that those affected receive the care, compassion, and support they deserve.
As your MP, I have been advocating on this issue for many years. Before the 2024 General Election, I worked as Shadow Minister for Women’s Health and Mental Health, where I consistently raised the importance of improving care, awareness, and outcomes for those living with endometriosis.
I have already been grateful to speak with constituents living with endometriosis and to hear first-hand about their experiences, but I am keen to ensure that as many voices as possible are heard.
I am proud of the progress already being made on women’s health. This includes the announcement that menopause questions will be incorporated into the NHS Health Check, action to reduce gynaecology waiting lists for the first time in years with additional funding to tackle the backlog, and the introduction of Jess’s Rule so that GPs in England ‘think again’ when patients attend multiple times without a diagnosis or when symptoms worsen.
However, there is much more to do. We must ensure this new Women’s Health Strategy is as strong and ambitious as possible – not only for women today, but for future years and generations to come.
If you or someone you love has been affected by endometriosis, I would value hearing from you. Please take a few moments to complete the survey below and share your experiences, priorities, and ideas for change.
If you know others who may be interested in contributing, please do share this survey so their voices can be heard too.
https://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Abena-at-U-of-Greenwich.jpg402602Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2026-02-19 11:25:052026-02-19 16:51:31Have Your Say: Endometriosis Care and the Women's Health Strategy
More families and children in Erith and Thamesmead will soon benefit from free, daily breakfast clubs as the Labour government confirms the next 500 schools to offer the scheme from April, including Linton Mead Primary School, putting up to £450 a year back in local parents’ pockets.
It represents a campaign win for Erith and Thamesmead’s Labour Member of Parliament, Abena Oppong-Asare, who has encouraged all local schools to apply to join the scheme. As a result, 647 children in their constituency will be able to access a nutritious meal at the start of the day.
This announcement comes less than a year since Oppong-Asare welcomed the initial roll out of free breakfast clubs at Willow Bank Primary School and Jubilee Primary School, both based in her constituency. She was delighted to visit both of these breakfast clubs since their launch and spoke with teachers, parents, and students about the positive impact these clubs are already having on their lives.
The clubs come alongside a raft of measures driven forward by Labour to cut the cost of living for families in Erith and Thamesmead, including expanding free school meals, rolling out 30 hours of government-funded childcare, bringing down school uniform costs and securing the future of Best Start holiday clubs.
Delivering on promises made to working parents in Labour’s manifesto, all primary aged children attending Linton Mead Primary School will be able to access a free breakfast and at least 30 minutes of free childcare, every day, helping to support parents getting into work.
Universal Best Start free breakfast clubs are central to Labour’s Plan for Change, breaking down barriers to opportunity by making sure every child starts the school day ready to learn – with research showing the clubs have a lasting impact on children’s behaviour, attendance and attainment.
The scheme plays a role in Labour’s moral mission to tackle child poverty, with the government on track to secure the biggest reduction in child poverty within a single parliament. By targeting support, Labour’s clubs will reach half a million pupils in England’s most disadvantaged communities. This will provide an essential meal to ensure every child starts the day ready to learn.
Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, said:
“Free breakfast clubs sit right at the heart of Labour’s Plan for Change, breaking the link between background and success for families all over the country.
“Breakfast clubs can have a transformative impact on the lives of millions of children, feeding hungry tummies and fuelling hungry minds, so every child begins the day ready to learn.
“Alongside our plans to roll out school-based nurseries and get thousands more children school-ready, this government is delivering the reforms needed to give every child, wherever they grow up, the best start in life.”
Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:
“I am so happy to announce that Linton Mead Primary School has been selected as one of Labour’s Best Start free breakfast clubs and I cannot wait to see the club open in April.
“It’s a testament to both the school and the Labour government’s dedication to getting children school-ready so they are able to improve their attendance, attainment and wellbeing, as well as improving the household finances of local families.
“Through our Plan for Change, this Labour government is boosting parents’ work choices and children’s life chances.”
Photos from Past Free Breakfast Club Visits at Jubilee and Willow Bank Primary Schools:
https://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/New-Free-Breakfast-Club-for-Linton-Mead-Primary.png10801080Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2026-02-13 14:17:152026-02-13 14:23:36Another Local School Set to Benefit from Free Breakfast Club, Confirms Erith and Thamesmead MP
I hope everyone in Erith and Thamesmead had a restful Christmas and New Year, and I wish you all the very best for 2026. This year, I am excited to continue delivering change in Erith and Thamesmead and across the country. This Government is intent on hitting the ground running in 2026. Recently, we have announced:
A Warm Homes Plan: the biggest public investment in home upgrades in British history to cut bills, tackle fuel poverty and create jobs.
Legislation to overhaul the Leasehold system including capping ground rent at £250.
An Animal Welfare strategy that delivers ambitious reforms to keep pace with the latest scientific evidence and closes loopholes.
A historic clean energy security pact with European allies to bolster energy security for families and businesses and a new water strategy to deliver on our promise to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas.
The first National Youth Strategy in over two decades to support our young people meet the evolving challenges of today.
A Violence Against Women and Girl’s strategy that sets out the government’s vision for meeting its ambition to halve violence against women and girls in a decade.
I welcome the Government’s continued engagement with the public to help inform policy decisions. Please do not hesitate to raise any policy concerns or casework with me. I recognise that this is a challenging time for many, and I am always happy to support my constituents wherever I can.
Shikshapatri Event
It was an honour to see the Shikshapatri at the SKS Swaminarayan Temple in Woolwich with Linda Bird, Mayor of Greenwich. I was fascinated to learn about the Temple’s significance and the Swaminarayan.
Thames Water works and 244 Bus Diversion in Shooters Hill
Residents of Shooters Hill will be aware of road closures caused by burst Thames Water pipes, which have disrupted the 244 bus service since early December. This prolonged disruption has been highly detrimental to the local community.
I have raised this issue repeatedly with all relevant stakeholders and have escalated my serious concerns directly to the CEOs of Thames Water and Transport for London.
I am pleased that we have finally been able to secure a better diversion of the 244 to the top of Shooters Hill and the works are set to finish shortly. I want to thank all residents who have taken thetime to raise this with me, the Council and local representatives.
I shared an update on the situation here and will continue to monitor developments on this issue closely.
Visit to Greenwich Food Bank
At the end of last year, I volunteered at Greenwich Food Bank. This was a great opportunity to help an organisation that provides crucial support for families in the area.
I’m inspired by the incredible team of volunteers who make their work possible. I was proud to promote their winter appeal, which you can find more about here.
Christmas Celebrations
Last year’s Christmas Card Competition was as competitive as ever. My thanks to all the students who sent in their designs. I really enjoyed meeting the winner, Tanvi, Year 1, at Belvedere Infant School whose drawing of Lesnes Abbey Wood Park was sent to, amongst others, the PM and the King! I also shared the design with the Speaker in Parliament.
I was also delighted to give a reading and help decorate the tree at Christ Church Erith’s Christmas Carol Service. It was a wonderful evening where I was joined by Revd Anthea Harris-Faulkner, Cllrs Nicola Taylor and Chris Ball, and so many from our local community.
It was great to join the Erith Rotary Club for their Annual Sleigh Tour, the Community Hospice for their Carol Concert, and the Speaker for his Christmas Reception as well.
Finally, it was a pleasure to attend the Greenwich Mummies Forum’s joyful Christmas event with local children, parents and elders. It was a very festive occasion and great to support and celebrate with such a fantastic community group in Plumstead!
Opening of Asian Oriental SuperMart
I had the honour of opening Asian Oriental SuperMart on Plumstead High Street in December. It is always a privilege to champion local businesses throughout the constituency.
Small Business Saturday
I celebrated the local high street during #SmallBusinessSaturday at the start of December. This included a visit to the Community Hospice shop, where I learnt more about their work supporting hospices in Erith and Thamesmead.
Royal Mail Visit
Really pleased to visit Royal Mail in December and celebrate the hard work of our brilliant posties ahead of the festive rush!
Holocaust Memorial Day
To mark Holocaust Memorial Day on 27th January, I attended a commemoration event at Woolwich Town Hall. I also signed the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Book of Commitment in Parliament – I fully support the Government’s commitment to tackling antisemitism that this Memorial Day reaffirms.
Parliamentary Work
On top of continuing in my role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister, I have recently had the chance to speak in Parliament on behalf of my constituents.
Firstly, I welcomed the Government’s plan to develop Thamesmead Waterfront as part of their New Towns strategy in the House of Commons. I firmly believe this is one of the biggest opportunities in the country that will provide up to 15,000 new homes, thousands of new jobs, an expanded new town centre and high-quality green spaces for Erith and Thamesmead constituents. You can watch my speech in full here.
As well as this, I raised the case of one of my constituents whose mental health is negatively affected by the noise produced by the fireworks at a Westminster Hall debate. I support the Government’s consideration of reform to fireworks legislation and their use in a safe and responsible manner. You can watch my intervention here.
Lastly, I spoke during the budget debate where I welcomed the funding the Government has allocated for the DLR to Thamesmead. You can watch this speech here.
It has also been a pleasure to join several parliamentary events and learn more about the advocacy of some terrific organisations, including the Samaritans, Young Women’s Trust, The British Beauty Council, L’Oreal, Show Racism the Red Card and the Armed Forces.
Furthermore:
SL11 Launched – the new SL11 is now running. While it brings quicker journeys and new connections, I also know some residents have concerns about the changes to the 472 that the introduction of the SL11 has affected. Please feel free to share your experiences with me.
President of Germany’s address to Parliament – great to listen to President Steinmeier’s address in the House of Commons in December.
Martin Luther King Day – proud to mark MLK Day on January 19th and his commitment to anti-racism.
Burns Night – wished all my Scottish constituents a very happy Burns Night.
ARC and CIC You Tour of Parliament – Great to sponsor their visit to Parliament, many of whom had never been before. If you are a resident or organisation based in Erith and Thamesmead constituency, don’t hesitate to reach out to organise a tour at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk
Stay updated on social media
For regular updates on my activities, follow me on X (@abenaopp), Facebook (Abena Oppong-Asare MP, Erith and Thamesmead), and Instagram (abena.oppongasare.mp).
It was an honour to see the Shikshapatri at the SKS Swaminarayan Temple in Woolwich with Linda Bird, Mayor of Greenwich. I was fascinated to learn about the temples significance in the community, be able to tour the temple and learn more about the scriptures.
https://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/4213daeb-6ce7-44e7-b5a4-5fac7b1f94b7-1-e1770825271718.jpeg6771200Nathan B-Ahttps://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngNathan B-A2026-01-29 16:46:292026-02-11 16:50:44Shikshapatri Event at SKS Woolwich Temple
I am delighted to announce the successful conclusion of my Christmas Card Competition 2025 for Erith and Thamesmead.
This annual competition invites schools from across our constituency to take part.
The theme for this year was: ‘Love Erith and Thamesmead: portraits of local landmarks’.
Pupils were asked to draw or paint a design that showed a local landmark in our constituency ensuring it has a Christmas theme. This might have included sporting venues that make them happy, the parks or open spaces, local communities, shops, or even family and friends on a visit to a chosen landmark.
As always, I would like to thank our fantastic students across the constituency who illustrated designs that show what they feel makes our constituency the fun place it is.
The artwork was assessed by a panel of judges, and I used the winning design as my Christmas Card this year, which was sent to over 1000 local people, businesses, and community groups. I also sent my card to the Prime Minister, the House of Commons Speaker and the King!
We had a great turnout from many enthusiastic students with many fun designs being sent in. I want to thank the schools, teachers, and parents who dedicated time to help organise the competition.
Congratulations to this year’s winner, Tanvi, Year 1, from Belvedere Infant School. Her design – alongside my full Christmas Card – can be seen below. She also wrote the below text to go with her design:
“I like to go to Lesnes Abbey Woods Park because it makes me happy. I can make new friends in the park and I play with them.”
I was delighted to meet Tanvi and her lovely family during a visit to Belvedere Infant School.
It was also great to join the House of Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, to present Tanvi’s design during his annual Christmas Card Showcase for MPs.
With special thanks to the sponsors of my card, who backed this year’s competition – including Edible Oils Limited, Oscar Mayer, and Manak Solicitors.
The Chancellor’s November Budget takes important steps to ease the cost of living, reduce national debt, and cut NHS waiting lists. It includes measures such as increasing the National Living Wage, freezing prescription charges, protecting the triple lock, and committing to lift over 450,000 children out of poverty during this Parliament.
Crucially for Erith and Thamesmead, the Budget also delivers a major win for our constituency: the long-awaited DLR extension to Thamesmead is finally moving forward. After decades of waiting, this transformational project will unlock new homes create jobs, and open up opportunities for local residents.
I was delighted to join the MP for West Ham and Beckton to mark this landmark announcement, which will benefit both our constituencies. You can watch our video together on social media here. Having heard directly from residents, I know how much this matters. One local resident, Peter, who has lived in Thamesmead for over 40 years, told me how pleased he is that this long-promised improvement is finally becoming a reality.
I look forward to working with partners to ensure this vital project is delivered. You can find out more on my website or listen to my BBC London Radio interview with Eddie Nestor CBE.
Remembrance Day Events 2025
It was an honour to represent Erith and Thamesmead this November during several important Remembrance Day events in our community and in Parliament.
I joined the Wreath laying at Memorial Hospital in Shooters Hill and Thamesmead Clocktower in Thamesmead town centre as well as Plumstead Cemetery followed by the War memorial at Woolwich New Cemetery.
Then on Remembrance Sunday I attended St Michael & All Angels in Abbey Wood, followed by a visit to Abbey Wood Memorial Gardens, where poignant artwork by local schoolchildren was on display.
I also pay tribute to the volunteers who supported the Royal British Legion to raise funds for such a great cause and I was pleased to meet some of them at their stand in Morrisons, Thamesmead.
Finally, it was an honour to attend the opening of the House of Commons Gardens of Remembrance with the Speaker of the House of Commons and colleagues. Proud to plant my tribute on behalf of Erith and Thamesmead constituency in memory of all who served and sacrificed for our country.
Campaign Win for 244 Commuters
Fantastic news for local commuters who use the 244 bus: after years of campaigning, Transport for London (TfL) has finally confirmed that double-decker buses are coming to the constantly overcrowded 244!
I’ve been pushing hard on this and I’m pleased TfL has listened to our community. I’m told that new electric double decker buses will be rolled out as they become available from the manufacturer, through the first few months of 2026. However, you may have seen some double decker buses already in operation!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to me about how this impacts you and find out more on my website here.
Officially opening the Off the Ropes Boxing Charity in Abbey Wood
I was thrilled to cut the ribbon and officially launch the Off the Ropes boxing charity at the Oxleas NHS Trust Goldie Leigh site in Abbey Wood.
It was fantastic to be joined by Oxleas CEO Dr Ify Okocha, Off the Ropes lead Warren Dunkley, and so many others to mark this exciting milestone. Their incredible team is helping local people build strength, confidence, and resilience – both inside and outside the ring.
What an inspiring mission, and huge congratulations to everyone involved. Great to have a chance to show off my boxing skills also! You can find out more about their work here: https://offtheropes.org.uk.
Willow Bank Primary School Visit
It was a pleasure to visit Willow Bank Primary School and spend time with pupils, staff, and parents. I joined the breakfast club, spoke with the school community at their sharing assembly, and met with the School Ambassadors. It was a great opportunity to hear children’s views on local community issues and to share insights about my role as their MP.
St John Fisher Catholic Primary School Visit
Great to visit St John Fisher School recently also. The pupils gave me a very creative and warm welcome and asked brilliant questions about Parliament and life as an MP. Inspiring to see such engaged young people – future leaders of Erith & Thamesmead!
Dominoes Visit
Great visit to the Domino’s Pizza store in West Thamesmead and even to get a chance to make a pizza! Huge thanks to Georgiana and the team for the warm welcome and for showing me the skill and hard work that goes into their business.
Thamesmead Islamic Centre Visit
I had the chance to attend and observe prayers at the Thamesmead Islamic Centre. It was great to hear about the important contribution of the Islamic Centre to the local community and seeking to provide great social value. It was also a good opportunity to hear directly from constituents about their local concerns and pick up important casework.
Campaign Summer School Visit to 10 Downing Street and Parliament
Delighted to welcome graduates from my Campaign Summer School to Westminster! They met the Prime Minister’s team at No.10 and heard from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy MP, alongside Jess Morden MP and Uma Kumaran MP. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and commitment to getting involved. Find out more about my 2025 Campaign Summer School here.
Fireworks Coalition Event in Parliament
It was important to join the Fireworks Impact Coalition in Parliament this month. Many constituents have raised serious concerns about the impact of fireworks on themselves, animals, and the wider community.
Attending this event, hosted by the coalition and supported by organisations such as the RSPCA, provided an opportunity to hear directly from those affected.
I welcomed the Government’s public safety campaign this year, which has helped raise awareness of these issues, and I have assured constituents that their views will be fed into the upcoming review on this topic.
Black Maternal Health Parliamentary event
It was great to speak at the Maternal Mental Health Alliance’s (MMHA) Black Maternal Health parliamentary event, hosted with the Motherhood Group.
We heard about MMHA’s new report and the vital work being led by activists to advance Black maternal health. It was also brilliant to be joined by the Minister for Women’s Health, Baroness Merron, and Baroness Luciana Berger, Chair of MMHA.
Sikh Parliamentary Event sponsored by Tan Dhesi MP
Pleased to join Tan Dhesi MP at this event alongside Erith and Belvedere Temple member Bakhshish Singh Tumber. The event marked the 350th anniversary of the 9th Sikh Guru’s sacrifice. Thanks also to the Supreme Sikh Council UK for organising.
My work in Parliament as PPS to the Prime Minister
This month, I have continued my work as Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Prime Minister. As we approach the end of the year, I’ve been working closely with parliamentary colleagues to help drive forward the Government’s Plan for Change.
Furthermore:
My ‘Meet Your MP’ Coffee Mornings – Delighted to promote these events, which you find out more about and sign up on my website here.
Morning After Pill free on the NHS – Delighted by this news that the morning-after pill is now available free of charge on the NHS. This Government is breaking down barriers with the biggest advances in women’s reproductive health since the 1960s.
Bring Kids Back Campaign – Proud to support the Bring Kids Back campaign on #WorldChildrens Day. We must stand together and demand the return of thousands of Ukrainian children, who are being kept from their families in Russia.
UK Parliament Week – Thanks to all those who reached out to me about taking part in UK Parliament Week. Great to see so many involved in our democracy.
White Ribbon Day – Proud to wear a White Ribbon as people come together to stand up against men’s violence against women and girls.
Sepsis & Leukaemia Awareness Week – Proud to wear the ribbon supporting Sepsis & Leukaemia Awareness Week and to meet the family and friends of Jibraan Chaudhary during their visit.
World Mental Health Day – Important to mark this awareness day in November.
World AIDS Day – December 1st was World AIDS Day so I was proud to share my support for all those working hard to make it so no one has to die from AIDS again.
Home Instead Dartford and All Saints Belvedere Parliament Tours – Delighted that I was able to sponsor a visit and tour of Parliament for both these groups this November. If you are a resident or organisation based in Erith and Thamesmead, don’t hesitate to reach out at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk
Stay updated on social media
For regular updates on my activities, follow me on Twitter (@abenaopp), Facebook (Abena Oppong-Asare MP, Erith and Thamesmead), and Instagram (abena.oppongasare.mp).
Abena Oppong-Asare, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead, has today welcomed the Labour Government’s freeze on rail fares – the first in 30 years.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the freeze ahead of the Budget this week, promising to save commuters hundreds of pounds on some of the busiest routes in the country, after decades of spiralling fares.
This freeze will be welcome news for many in Erith and Thamesmead constituency, who use Southeastern and Govia Thameslink train links on a daily basis.
Savings will be a game-changer for many commuters across the country. For example, those travelling to work 3 days a week using flexi-season tickets, will save:
£125 per year, travelling from Basildon to London
£315 per year, travelling from Milton Keynes to London
£173 per year, travelling from Woking to London
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“This historic freeze will give much-needed breathing space for families across Erith and Thamesmead who rely on the train for travel.
“Labour understands the cost pressures working people face. And we also understand that the economy only works when it works for everyone – including making sure it’s affordable for people to travel to work and get where they need to.
“This shows the Chancellor is taking fair choices as we approach the Budget, with cutting the cost of living being a major priority.”
This announcement comes ahead of the Budget, which the Government has said will focus on the priorities of the British people: cutting waiting lists, cutting the national debt and cutting the cost of living.
Labour’s wider plans for Britain’s railways includes establishing a new publicly-owned company called “Great British Railways”, that will run and manage the tracks and trains used every day –ending years of fragmentation, driving up standards for passengers, and making journey easier and better value for money.
GBR will be accountable to passengers and taxpayers, bringing fares and ticketing into the 21st century, including through a new GBR website and app and building on the expansion of successful Pay As You Go and fares trials across the country.
https://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Abena-train.jpg429705Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://www.abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2025-11-24 14:07:412025-11-24 14:16:19Rail Fares Frozen for Commuters and Families in Erith and Thamesmead
Abena Oppong-Asare, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead, has welcomed reports that the Government is expected to confirm funding for the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) extension to Thamesmead in next week’s Budget – a major milestone for a project she has championed since her election in 2019.
The extension from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead – with a new station at Beckton – would bring a rail link to Thamesmead for the first time and help tackle decades of transport inequality in one of London’s most transport deprived areas. Journey times to Stratford could fall from currently up to 55 minutes to around 25 to 30 minutes, with commuters also able to reach Canary Wharf in 20 to 25 minutes and Liverpool Street in 35 to 40 minutes.
Extending the line is expected to unlock 25,000 new homes, up to 10,000 jobs and nearly £18 billion in private investment over 30 years – a scale of regeneration that would benefit both existing residents and future generations. It is believed over half a million people that live in Erith and Thamesmead and the wider area will benefit from this extension.
Abena was first elected on a pledge to campaign for this project, and she launched the #NextStopThamesmead campaign immediately after being elected. She has spent years driving cross-party and cross-institution support – including engagement with the Mayor of London, TfL, local authorities, developers and ministers.
Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:
“This is a huge step forward for Thamesmead. For too long, residents have been cut off from the transport links that much of London takes for granted. The DLR extension will finally change that – opening up access to jobs, education and opportunities across the capital.”
“I have championed this from day one. I raised it in my maiden speech and I’ve pushed ever since for the investment and regeneration our community deserves.”
“This breakthrough belongs to everyone who backed the campaign – residents, community groups and partners across London. Now we need confirmation in the Budget and a clear path to delivery, because Thamesmead has waited long enough.”
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:
“I’m really pleased that the Government is backing the DLR extension to Thamesmead – something I’ve long called for alongside London’s businesses and communities. The project is a win-win and a massive vote of confidence in London. It will not only transform travel in a historically underserved part of the capital, but also unlock thousands of new jobs and homes, boosting the economy not just locally but nationally.
“I look forward to working hand in hand with Ministers to deliver this vital project as we continue building a more prosperous London for everyone.”
The plan aligns well with the Chancellor’s pledge to choose growth over austerity in the Budget and drive renewal in every part of the UK.
This breakthrough comes just months after the Chancellor committed at the Spending Review to working with Transport for London (TfL) to explore options for delivering the DLR extension to Thamesmead. It also follows the government’s announcement in September that Thamesmead has been identified by the New Towns Taskforce as one of 12 recommended locations for the next generation of new towns.
The Autumn Budget will be delivered by the Chancellor on Wednesday 26 November 2025.
I was pleased to attend the Fireworks Impact Coalition event in Parliament on 12 November to hear firsthand from organisations and individuals about the impact fireworks can have on animals, vulnerable people and communities. I know this is an issue many constituents in Erith and Thamesmead have raised with me, and I take these concerns very seriously.
While the vast majority of people use fireworks safely and responsibly, it is important that we continue to minimise the risk of harm. I therefore welcome the Government’s ongoing work to engage with charities, businesses and consumer groups to examine the current legislation and gather evidence on where improvements may be needed.
I am also encouraged by the Government’s fireworks public safety campaign for this year, which provides clearer public guidance and highlights the risks of misuse. I will follow developments closely, including the progress of the Fireworks Bill, and continue to represent the concerns of my constituents on this issue.
Thank you once again to all those who have raised this issue with me.
