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Impact of London river crossings plans must be clear, says Assembly

1 February 2013

The London Assembly has today called on Transport for London (TfL) to be clear about the objectives for its proposed new river crossings plans[1]. The Assembly’s Transport Committee asked TfL to examine the result of past consultations – especially the Thames Gateway Bridge – and to consider conducting pilots of alternative ideas to cut congestion.

Tolling existing crossings to the west of the Dartford crossing ahead of new construction was one alternative pilot suggested at the Assembly’s recent seminar on river crossings at City Hall on 9 January.

The Transport Committee has submitted a response to TfL’s consultation, which closes today, on suggested plans for a vehicle-only tunnel between Silvertown and Greenwich Peninsula and a new ferry service at Gallions Reach[2]. The Assembly’s response summarised a wide range views – including those of representatives from east London boroughs, Sustrans and LondonFirst – that were aired at its seminar[3].

The Committee’s response also asked TfL to make its consultation process transparent and ensure stakeholders and members of the public had access to information to allow them to make an informed decision when replying to their consultation.

Caroline Pidgeon AM, Chair of the London Assembly’s Transport Committee, said:
 
“A new crossing in east London would have a significant impact on businesses and local residents. TfL must ensure that their decision process is transparent and any plans put forward are backed by strong facts and figures. They must reflect both the need to support different journey types and address congestion and economic regeneration concerns.”

 

Notes to editors:

  1. New river crossings in east London: Transport Committee response to TfL’s consultation
  2. TfL’s consultation (open until 1 February 2013): ‘Seeking your views on improving river crossings’
  3. Information on the Transport Committee's River Crossing Seminar.
  4. Information on the London Assembly’s Transport Committee.
  5. Caroline Pidgeon AM, Chair of the Transport Committee, is available for interview. Contact details below.
  6. As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.

For more details, please contact Sheena Craig in the Assembly Media Office on 020 7983 4603/4283. For out of hours media enquiries please call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the Assembly duty press officer. Non-media enquiries should be directed to the Public Liaison Unit, Greater London Authority, on 020 7983 4100.