Transport for London (TfL) has published its responses to issues raised during the Bakerloo line consultation which could extend the tube route through Lewisham and Bromley.
The proposed extension, earmarked for completion in 2030, could see the Bakerloo line extended from Elephant and Castle through New Cross, Lewisham, Catford, Beckenham and Hayes.
There is also an option for a tunnel to Bromley town, which was supported by 60 per cent of the 15,346 respondents to the 2014 consultation.
In the latest phase of the consultation TfL addressed concerns and questions over the scheme.
The proposed Bakerloo line extension. (c.) TfL.
5 of the biggest questions and concerns sparked by a Bakerloo extension
- Will the extension increase my journey times?
TfL said overall journey times between existing stations that might be served by an extension and central London are expected to fall. An extension could offer a higher frequency service and more direct journeys.
2. How will the extension be funded?
TfL doesn't quite know yet, it said in the report: "As part of wider work, TfL is currently exploring how the proposed extension could be funded via new development." TfL would take inspiration from the Northern Line Extension to Battersea and the Crossrail scheme.
3. Bromley does not require further new development
But according to the mayor's London Plan it does. TfL said: "The London Plan has designated Bromley town centre as an Opportunity Area, capable of providing an additional 2,500 homes and 2,000 jobs."
4. A completely new Underground line is required to serve southeast London
It's an issue of cost, said TfL: "Construction of an entirely new Underground line from south east London into central London would also be significantly more expensive than the proposed extension of the Bakerloo line."
5. Extending the line to Beckenham Junction and Hayes could lead to overcrowding on the Bakerloo line
Apparently the Bakerloo line has spare capacity which forecast to continue following the planned line upgrade, with up to 27 trains per hour expected.
An extension of the Bakerloo line is being considered to support future growth of south east London.
The borough of Lewisham is expected to see an increase of 20,000 more jobs and 65,000 more residents by 2036, with a forecasted rise of 16,000 more jobs and 53,000 more residents in Bromley.
According to the report, published on Monday, TfL is now further reviewing responses and alternatives suggestions, which include improving the National Rail provision and extending the overground network.
Once the options have been fully explored the results will be published with a further public consultation expected to take place by early next year.
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