Transport for London (TfL) claims it has received "strong support" for its long-awaited plan to extend the DLR to Thamesmead, despite a public consultation revealing concerns about construction disruption, traffic and environmental impacts.

The proposed £1.5 billion scheme would see the Docklands Light Railway extended from Beckton Riverside to Thamesmead through a new tunnel under the River Thames, delivering the south-east London town's first rail connection.

TfL says the project could unlock up to £15.6 billion of economic growth, support thousands of new homes and jobs, and cut journey times to central London to around 30 minutes.

Publishing the results of a consultation held between June and July, transport chiefs said respondents broadly backed the plans because of the prospect of improved public transport links, regeneration opportunities and better access to employment and education.

However, the consultation also highlighted concerns around traffic, noise, construction impacts and potential environmental effects.

Of the 553 responses received, 527 came from members of the public and 26 from stakeholder organisations. TfL said 227 comments expressed support for the proposals.

Accessibility, walking routes and cycling connections also emerged as key issues raised by respondents.

TfL insisted it would continue to address concerns as the scheme progresses through the planning process.

The extension is seen as one of London's most significant transport projects outside central London, with Thamesmead remaining one of the largest areas of the capital without a rail connection.

The scheme would also open up around 145 hectares of brownfield land for development, supporting City Hall's wider housing ambitions in east and south-east London.

The project received a major boost last year when it secured government backing, with TfL planning to fund construction through a combination of Greater London Authority and TfL borrowing supported by future fare revenue.

If approved, construction is expected to start in 2029.

Deputy Mayor for Transport Seb Dance said the project had the potential to "transform travel in a part of the capital that has historically lacked the public transport connections it needs".

He added: "It will unlock thousands of new homes and jobs, and boost economic growth across the capital and beyond."

Anthony Okereke, leader of Greenwich Council, described the proposed extension as a "game changer" for Thamesmead and said it would help unlock the area's potential for new housing and economic growth.