Transport for LondonThames Gateway bridged by planning approval
The Thames Gateway is another step closer to gaining the substantial access and regeneration benefits of the Thames Gateway Bridge, following approval of Transport for London's (TfL's) planning application.
The London Boroughs of Greenwich and Newham have both granted planning permission for TfL's plan to build the Thames Gateway Bridge.
Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London said:
"These decisions mark the culmination of several years work and reflect the commitment of local government to delivering better services to the people of London. East Londoners have consistently given overwhelming support for the bridge and I am delighted the London Boroughs of Newham and Greenwich have offered their backing to this essential project."
Michael Clarke, Project Director for the Thames Gateway Bridge said:
"The Thames Gateway Bridge will deliver the increased accessibility that is essential to revitalising this area of East London. These decisions put us one step closer to providing a catalyst for regeneration, investment and job creation in the Thames Gateway.
"TfL has worked closely with Newham and Greenwich throughout the development and planning process of the Thames Gateway Bridge project and we will continue to work closely with both boroughs as the project progresses."
- The Thames Gateway Bridge would link Beckton with Thamesmead at Gallions Reach and provide a much-needed local link to help create jobs and housing in the area. The bridge is designed to have two lanes in either direction for cars and commercial vehicles. It would also have separate lanes for public transport, pedestrians and cyclists.
- The £455 million development and construction cost of the bridge would be met jointly through TfL, a toll on cars and commercial vehicles using the bridge and also by up to £200 million of Government PFI credits. The bridge would be constructed and operated by a private sector company in partnership with TfL, using a PFI structure.
- The bridge is expected to help create both jobs and housing on either side of the river and TfL estimates that it would put an extra 1.4 million jobs within 45 minutes of Thamesmead by car and public transport. It would help create around 35,000 new jobs in the region.
- A TfL consultation found that 85 per cent of East Londoners who responded want the bridge to be built. From 13 May to 12 August 2003, TfL distributed leaflets or brochures to almost half a million homes and businesses.
- TfL has also applied for a range of powers from Central Government and other agencies that are required to build the Bridge. The Secretary of State will hold an inquiry into these applications in Spring 2005.
