Nick has responded with dismay to media speculation that the new Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition is considering cuts to the Crossrail scheme.

Reports in the press, fuelled by the recent comments of the Tory Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, have suggested that the government may not be committed to the south east section of the scheme, which connects Canary Wharf, Woolwich and Abbey Wood.

Nick today expressed serious concern about the implications for transport and economic regeneration in South East London if the scheme is cut.

Nick said:

“I warned throughout the election campaign of the risk that a Tory government would seek to make cuts to the Crossrail Scheme.  Now, within days of a new government taking office, there are rumours in the press that they are planning to do just this.  Crossrail is fundamental to improving transport links and bringing about economic regeneration in South East London.  Any suggestion that work might be delayed or cut risks undermining business confidence in this part of the capital.  I am therefore actively seeking reassurances from the government that it remains committed to the south east section of the Crossrail scheme.  I have written to the new Secretary of State for Transport to express my concerns and am due to meet the Mayor of London later today.”

Nick has campaigned with Labour Greenwich Council over many years for essential improvements to the transport infrastructure in South-East London, including the Docklands Light Railway and the Jubilee Line extension.