Transport for LondonMayor's message
Skip to navigation << Back to indexWe have faced major challenges and achieved some great successes in improving transport in London during the last year.
The biggest challenge has been the introduction of congestion charging in central London. The scheme has already achieved a significant reduction in traffic, which in turn makes for a cleaner, more pleasant environment and encourages residents and tourists to make the most of our city.
There have been crucial steps forward to improve public transport in the Capital.
I took control of London Underground on 15 July, with the aim of delivering the best possible service to Londoners. We face a tough challenge to transform an under-invested transport system, while still delivering three million Tube journeys a day. There will be no overnight changes. It will take a long time to see improvements but every step will be taken to create a reliable, safe and efficient service.
The Crossrail project, which will provide a vital transport link into the heart of London, has received the support of Government. We must now raise the money to make this scheme a reality. I am concerned that, without new revenue mechanisms, maintaining the current level of provision and building new transport systems will become more difficult.
London cannot continue to grow and prosper without good public transport. We will continue to do everything in our power to maintain and improve public transport in London and ensure that Government does all it can to help us with the challenges we face.
The long-awaited East London Line extension is now moving ahead and will provide a huge boost to London's economy, in terms of access to jobs and housing for thousands of people in north and south east London.
I remain committed to improving public transport and creating opportunities for regeneration, through schemes including Crossrail, Thameslink, the East London Line extension, extensions to the Docklands Light Railway and the new river crossings in the Thames Gateway.
As well as new rail projects, Londoners are benefiting from big improvements to buses in the Capital. Buses are now more regular, more reliable and - thanks to dedicated transport policing - safer than ever before. This is reflected in a significant growth in passenger numbers - one million more people a day are now using London's buses.
By the end of 2003 bus fares will have remained frozen for four years. Holding down these fares, not only provides an alternative to car travel but also reflects that some of the people most dependent upon public transport are on low incomes. Accessible and affordable transport must be available to all. Another success has been the completion of the ambitious scheme to breathe new life into Trafalgar Square, with the introduction of new traffic arrangements and a new pedestrianised area in front of the National Gallery.
Once again, everyone can enjoy the square as it was originally intended; a great place to meet friends and relax.
There is so much further to go. The biggest challenge will be securing the funding needed to ensure services continue to improve and new transport systems are delivered. This is essential to ensure London's place as a world class city.
Ken Livingstone
Mayor of London
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