London TravelWatch has warmly welcomed the announcement that phase two of the East London line extension has been given the go-ahead, and its funding secured.

Sharon Grant, Chair, London TravelWatch said: “We are delighted that, finally, after long negotiations, this much-needed project will go ahead. This is a vital link in a part of London that desperately needs improved public transport.”

The extension will link Surrey Quays to Peckham to Clapham Junction, and will be paid for by Transport for London and the Government.

Sharon Grant continued: “This extension will provide improved links to City and the Docklands, as well as ease congestion on other routes. However, we hope that an appropriate funding package can be agreed to ensure that Surrey Canal Road station can be built in time for opening of this extension. We also need to make sure that the travelling public are fully consulted and kept fully informed of any changes to other services while the engineering work is happening, and once it is complete.”

For more information, please contact Jo deBank in the London TravelWatch press office on 020 7726 9953 or 07734 055494.

The voice of London's transport users
12 February 2009