Mayor of London unveils plans for three new Thames river crossings in East London

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has unveiled plans for three new Thames river crossings in East London.

After reviewing predecessor Boris Johnson’s plans, Mr Khan outlined plans for the new river crossings to be constructed in the next five to ten years in East London.

Mr Khan claims the move will ease congestion and cut pollution in the capital.

The plans include the fast tracking of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge linking Rotherhithe & Canary Wharf.

A Docklands Light Railway (DLR) crossing at Gallions Reach is also proposed to support the development of around 17,000 new homes across Newham and the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Further assessment work will be undertaken for a Barking Riverside-Abbey Wood London Overground crossing and a North Greenwich-Isle of Dogs ferry, supporting new development on the Greenwich Peninsula and the Isle of Dogs.

The plans also include the controversial Silvertown tunnel, which had been criticised previously for incurring a user charge by Mr Khan claiming it was “a tax on East and South East Londoners’.

The plans for the tunnel have been “enhanced” to encourage people to use public transport and include a low-emission bus zone and a cycle bus that will transport cyclists through the tunnel.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “It’s no secret that London has long needed more river crossings in the east. With new homes and economic growth across East London, it becomes even more important that we deliver new greener transport links that allow Londoners to cross the river quickly and more easily.

“But we don’t want these to have a damaging impact on our environment, and that’s why I’ve reviewed and improved plans for Silvertown Tunnel and why I’m pushing forward with crossings that encourage public transport, walking and cycling.

“As we continue to unlock the massive economic potential of East London, we must secure the very best transport infrastructure that improves the quality of life for everyone living and working in the area.”

Alex Williams, Acting Managing Director of Planning at TfL, said London’s expanding population meant it was “vital” to support the plans. He commented: “The Mayor’s new vision for river crossings in East London is firmly rooted in supporting growth and providing better public transport links for all.

“We will now work hard to develop the designs for these new crossings, as well as identify potential funding opportunities, to allow them to be constructed more quickly.”

 

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