London could be crippled by loss of yet another transport project

4.18.10pm GMT Mon 27th Oct 2003

Plans to jeopardise Crossrail have been condemned by the London Assembly Liberal Democrats.

Commenting on news that Treasury officials are planning to block the £10bn Crossrail scheme, Lynne Featherstone, Lib Dem Chair of the London Assembly's transport committee said:

"This news, coming on top of the Mayor's announcement last week that major projects such as the Thames Gateway Bridge and the East London Line extensions could be abandoned due to a predicted £1bn black hole in his transport budget, threatens to cripple the transport network.

"Crossrail is the most important solution to the capital's transport problems. The rail network is under a huge strain and an increase in capacity is vital to ensure London's continued growth and success. If the chronic overcrowding is not tackled, businesses will begin to move away from London.

She added: "Blocking Crossrail will do little to tempt motorists to switch to public transport and ease the capital's gridlock. The Government should instead be looking at ways of raising money to supplement investment by the private sector to raise confidence in the viability of this crucial project."

ENDS