Next steps

Between now and the planned opening of the tram in 2016 there is a lot of work to be done. The key steps leading to implementation are outlined below.

Key steps

Technical review
Identify preferred route
Consultation design of preferred route
Submit Transport and Works Act Order application
Construction

Stage A - Technical review

As funding to build this proposal has yet to be identified, conclusions on the preferred route alignment will follow an assessment of funding, relative priority and the options including staged implementation. This would include consideration against a range of technical criteria including:

Passenger numbers
Review of depot options
Improvements in journey time
Traffic
Regeneration opportunities
Environmental impacts
Views expressed by the public and stakeholders, including the boroughs

Step B - Identify preferred route, adopted and safeguarded

A single preferred route and a proposed programme for the next stages would be selected from the technical and funding review outlined above. We will work with the borough councils to ensure the route is protected from future developments.

Stage C - Consultation on the design of preferred tram route

This consultation would outline the impacts of the scheme as well as the preferred route.

Stage D - Submit Transport and Works Act (TWA) Order application

TfL submits detailed plans for the design and construction of Cross River Tram to the Secretary of State for the Department of Transport as an application for a TWA order.

Stage E - Public inquiry and Secretary of State decision

Once the application has been made, the Secretary of State will decide on whether a public inquiry takes place. This is an independent legal process that will examine all aspects of the project.

In light of the inspector's decision, the Secretary of State will make the decision whether to allow us to build the tram with or without amendments or conditions based on evidence given during the public inquiry.

Stage F - Construction

Subject to funding being available and procurement being completed construction would commence some 12 months after this decision and will be phased over three to four years.