Major Changes to 424 Bus Route Proposed
TfL wants to end the service between Putney and Fulham
The 424 route would be split in two with a new service for north of the river
November 18, 2025
Transport for London (TfL) has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the 424 bus route, which currently links Putney Heath with Fulham’s Stevenage Road.
Under the plans, the 424 would be shortened to run only between Putney Heath and Putney High Street, while a new route—numbered 454—would take over the northern section between Putney Bridge Station and Fulham Football Club.
The consultation runs until Sunday 11 January 2026, and TfL is encouraging residents and passengers to share their views online.
The restructured route 424 would terminate at Upper Richmond Road, no longer serving Fulham. It would operate in a one-way anti-clockwise loop via Putney Hill, Carlton Drive and Upper Richmond Road, with buses running every 45 minutes.
The new route 454 would cover most of the 424’s current northern alignment, running between Putney Bridge Station and Stevenage Road near Craven Cottage and Cannons Leisure Centre. TfL is considering two frequency options for the 454: every 30 minutes or every 45 minutes.
In Sands End, the 454 would follow a slightly different path from the current 424. Instead of looping through Byam Street, Broughton Road and Pearscroft Road, it would run in both directions along New King’s Road, Bagley’s Lane, and Townmead Road. However, TfL notes that the necessary highway changes on Bagley’s Lane have not yet been approved by the borough.
The 424 was introduced in 2002 as a local route designed to connect residential areas of Fulham and Putney with key transport hubs. It was one of several “Hail & Ride” style services introduced in the early 2000s to improve local accessibility, particularly for older residents and those living on quieter streets not served by larger buses.
Initially operated by London General, the route has seen several changes over the years, including extensions and frequency adjustments. Its loop through the backstreets of Fulham—via Lysia Street, Woodlawn Road, Queensmill Road and Inglethorpe Street—has long been valued by residents for its proximity to homes, schools and community facilities.
However, TfL has cited low ridership and operational inefficiencies as reasons for restructuring the route. The proposed 454 is intended to streamline service while maintaining coverage of key destinations.
TfL says it will review all feedback before making a final decision. If approved, the changes would be implemented later in 2026. The public can view maps, ask questions, and submit comments via TfL’s consultation portal.
Local councillors and residents’ groups are expected to weigh in over the coming weeks, with some likely to raise concerns about reduced service frequency and the loss of direct links across the river.
Click here to respond to the consultation.
TfL will publish a consultation report after the closing date, summarising all responses received.
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