Sadiq Khan: Unprecedented overcrowding without Crossrail 2

Sadiq Khan: Unprecedented overcrowding without Crossrail 2



Sadiq Khan has told the government the capital’s transport network will grind to a halt under the strain of overcrowding unless plans for Crossrail 2 are backed.


The mayor of London’s warning comes after Transport for London revealed that at least 17 tube stations would buckle under crowding pressures without the new south-west to north-east London connection.

TfL also warned that passengers arriving at Euston on HS2 phase two could lose time saved on their journeys by having to queue to board onward trains.

Despite the upcoming arrival of the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail 1) – which will link west and east London – it will not be enough to cope with the anticipated demand.

Mr Khan said Crossrail 2 was essential to meet London’s ambitious targets for new affordable homes with 200,000 properties set to be supported by the proposed transport system.

“It’s crucial to unlocking future economic growth in the aftermath of the EU referendum.

“It’s crucial to ensure that Euston station keeps running smoothly when HS2 opens, and it’s crucial if we are to prevent Waterloo, Victoria and many other stations from rush-hour meltdown.”

TfL is planning to submit a robust updated business case and funding plan to the transport secretary, who is due to make a decision on further government support in the spring.

“Half the cost of the project can be met through funding from London, but we need the government to meet the other half if we are to avoid this unbearable strain on our transport network,” Mr Khan added.

“Crossrail 2 is the answer to help the entire country, because when London succeeds, Britain succeeds.”

The construction of Crossrail 2 could start in the early 2020s with the railway up and running by 2033.



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