Route 355: London's Enduring Bus Journey

London's extensive bus network is a vital artery of the city, connecting diverse communities and facilitating daily commutes for millions. Among its myriad routes, London Buses Route 355 stands out as a fascinating example of evolution and adaptation within the capital's public transport system. Currently operating as a crucial link between Mitcham and Brixton, this Transport for London contracted route, presently managed by London Central, has undergone numerous transformations since its inception. Its story is a microcosm of the continuous efforts to optimise and modernise London's bus services, responding to changing urban landscapes and passenger needs.

The journey of Route 355 began on a crisp Saturday, 28 April 1990. It was introduced as a Monday to Saturday service, initially connecting Colliers Wood Station with Elephant & Castle. This inaugural route traversed key South London areas including Tooting, Balham, Clapham, Stockwell, and Kennington. The primary purpose of its introduction was strategic: to partially fill the gap left by the withdrawal of a section of the much-loved Route 88, specifically between Clapham and Tooting. This demonstrated a clear intent to maintain essential connectivity in these busy corridors. Operations commenced under the stewardship of London General, utilising their Merton (AL) garage, and the fleet consisted of robust Daimler Fleetlines, a common sight on London's roads at the time, known for their reliability and capacity.

A Route in Flux: Key Diversions and Withdrawals

The history of Route 355 is marked by a series of significant route adjustments, reflecting the dynamic nature of London's urban development and transport planning. Just over a year after its launch, on 25 May 1991, the route experienced its first major alteration. At Tooting, Route 355 was re-routed, extending its southern terminal to Mitcham. This change was part of a strategic exchange with Route 219, allowing for a more streamlined service in the Tooting area and better serving the Mitcham community. This kind of inter-route adjustment is a common practice in London to optimise network efficiency and coverage.

Further changes followed in the mid-1990s. On 29 June 1996, a significant portion of the route was withdrawn. The section between Stockwell and Elephant & Castle, which had been part of its original itinerary, ceased operation. This withdrawal likely aimed to streamline services or avoid duplication with other routes, concentrating resources where they were most needed. These route modifications are not arbitrary; they are the result of careful analysis of passenger demand, traffic patterns, and the overall efficiency of the bus network.

A notable diversion occurred on 30 April 2005. At Clapham South, Route 355 was redirected to serve areas via Kings Avenue and Acre Lane, leading to Brixton. This new path replaced the previous routing along Landor Road. The withdrawn Landor Road section was subsequently covered by the extended Route 322, illustrating the interconnectedness of London's bus routes and how changes to one often necessitate adjustments to others. This continuous recalibration ensures that London's evolving transport needs are met effectively, adapting to new residential and commercial developments.

The Wheels of Change: Fleet and Operational Evolution

Beyond route adjustments, the operational aspects and the vehicles themselves have seen substantial evolution, reflecting technological advancements and a commitment to modernising the fleet. A pivotal shift in operation occurred on 28 November 1992, when Route 355 was converted to One Person Operation (OPO). This move, standardising driver roles without conductors, was a significant step towards efficiency and cost-effectiveness across London's bus network. This transition was accompanied by the introduction of Wright Handybus bodied Dennis Darts, smaller and more agile vehicles suitable for OPO.

The late 1990s brought further enhancements for passengers. On 29 May 1999, a Sunday service was introduced, extending the route's availability and making it a truly seven-day-a-week lifeline for commuters and leisure travellers alike. This was also the date when the route converted to low floor operation, a crucial improvement for accessibility. Plaxton Pointer 2 bodied Dennis Dart SLFs (Super Low Floor) were introduced, making the bus more accessible for passengers with mobility issues, pushchairs, or wheelchairs – a testament to Transport for London's commitment to inclusive transport.

Operator contracts in London are subject to periodic tendering, and Route 355 has seen several retentions and transfers. London General retained the route on 12 December 1998 and again on 13 December 2003, demonstrating consistent service quality. However, on 31 March 2012, operation of the route transferred to London Central, operating from their Camberwell (Q) garage. This change brought a new operational perspective and potentially different maintenance regimes, yet the core service remained consistent for passengers.

Vehicle updates continued throughout the 2010s. In May 2016, the long-serving Plaxton Pointer 2 bodied Dennis Dart SLFs were replaced by Optare Esteem bodied Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 Darts, bringing a newer generation of vehicles to the route. A brief operational change occurred on 27 August 2016, when Metrobus took over the operation from their Croydon (C) garage. Interestingly, at this point, the Optare Esteem bodied Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 Darts were replaced by Plaxton Pointer 2 bodied Dennis Dart SLFs, indicating a potential fleet rationalisation or contractual specification. However, this was a temporary measure, as brand new Wright StreetLite DFs were introduced on 2 October 2017, gradually converting the route to a full Wright StreetLite DF operation by 23 October 2017. Metrobus retained the route on 9 December 2017.

The route even saw a partial conversion to double-deck operation on 19 October 2020, with the introduction of Wright Eclipse Gemini 3 bodied Volvo B5LHs, enhancing capacity during peak times. More recently, existing Enviro 400 MMC bodied Alexander Dennis E40Hs were introduced on 19 April 2022, followed by an existing Alexander Dennis Enviro 400H on 17 July 2023, further diversifying the fleet and hinting at a shift towards more environmentally friendly options.

The most recent operational transfer occurred on 30 September 2023, when the route transferred back to London Central, once again operating from their Camberwell (Q) garage. Simultaneously, the route reverted to a full Wright StreetLite DF operation, streamlining the fleet once more. In June 2024, a temporary introduction of Enviro 200 MMC EV bodied BYD D8URs alongside the existing Wright StreetLite DFs marked a significant step towards electrification. London Central retained the route on 7 December 2024, and at the same time, the Peak Vehicle Requirement (PVR) increased from 12 to 13, indicating a slight increase in service provision.

Current Service and Future Outlook

Currently, London Buses Route 355 provides a frequent and reliable service, with buses running approximately every 12-15 minutes. This consistent frequency ensures that passengers can rely on the service for their daily travel between Mitcham and Brixton, connecting them to key transport hubs and local amenities.

The future of Route 355 is set to be even greener and more modern. From 2025, the allocation for Route 355 will transfer to Stockwell (SW) garage, consolidating operations. More excitingly, a brand new Wright GB Kite Electroliner EV was introduced on 22 July 2025, operating alongside the existing Wright StreetLite DFs and Enviro200 MMC EV bodied BYD D8URs. The most significant development is the planned conversion to a full Wright GB Kite Electroliner EV operation from early 2026, marking Route 355 as another fully electric route in London's expanding zero-emission bus fleet. This transition underscores London's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality, making bus travel not just convenient, but also environmentally responsible.

Key Milestones of London Buses Route 355

Frequently Asked Questions About Route 355

When did London Buses Route 355 commence operation?

London Buses Route 355 commenced operation on 28 April 1990. It was initially introduced as a Monday to Saturday service, running between Colliers Wood Station and Elephant & Castle.

What is the current frequency of Route 355?

Route 355 operates with a frequency of approximately every 12-15 minutes, providing a regular and reliable service for passengers throughout its operating hours.

Which areas does Route 355 currently serve?

Route 355 currently operates between Mitcham and Brixton, serving key areas in South London and connecting various communities along its path.

Who is the current operator of Route 355?

As of 30 September 2023, the operation of Route 355 transferred back to London Central, who operate it from their Camberwell (Q) garage. London Central also retained the route on 7 December 2024.

What types of buses are currently used on Route 355?

As of late 2023 and into 2024, Route 355 primarily uses Wright StreetLite DFs. Additionally, Enviro 200 MMC EV bodied BYD D8URs were temporarily introduced in June 2024. From July 2025, brand new Wright GB Kite Electroliner EVs will be introduced alongside these, leading to a full conversion to this electric model by early 2026.

Will Route 355 become a fully electric bus route?

Yes, Route 355 is planned to convert to a full Wright GB Kite Electroliner EV operation from early 2026, marking a significant step towards a fully electric fleet for the route.

Has Route 355 always followed the same path?

No, Route 355 has undergone several significant route changes since its inception. Key alterations include re-routing at Tooting to Mitcham in 1991, withdrawal of the Stockwell to Elephant & Castle section in 1996, and a major diversion at Clapham South to Brixton in 2005.

Why was Route 355 originally introduced?

Route 355 was originally introduced to partly replace a withdrawn section of Route 88 between Clapham and Tooting, ensuring continued bus service for passengers in those areas.

In conclusion, London Buses Route 355 embodies the dynamic spirit of London's public transport. From its beginnings in 1990 as a replacement service, it has continuously adapted its route, embraced technological advancements in its fleet, and shifted between operators to best serve the evolving needs of the capital. Its journey from Daimler Fleetlines to the upcoming full electric Wright GB Kite Electroliner EV operation highlights a commitment to modern, accessible, and environmentally conscious travel. As it continues to connect Mitcham and Brixton, Route 355 remains a testament to the resilience and progressive nature of London's vital bus network.

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