New Thames tunnel gets government backing (From News Shopper)

Boris Johnson welcomes Justine Greening decision on Thames tunnel linking Silvertown with Greenwich

3:59pm Wednesday 27th June 2012 in Greenwich news By Mark Chandler

GOVERNMENT backing for a new tunnel under the Thames has been heralded as a major step forward for the project.

Secretary of State for Transport Justine Greening has designated the proposed new tunnel, which would link Greenwich with Silvertown across the river, a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project.

The decision, which follows an application by Mayor of London Boris Johnson, means that red tape for the project could be cut back, helping to meet a proposed opening date of 2021.

Mr Johnson said: "This decision is a major step forward for the Silvertown Tunnel, an important new Thames River crossing which would reduce congestion and boost economic growth in this important development area of London."

Transport for London says its consultation on the plans earlier this year saw 3,900 responses, 82 per cent of which supported the tunnel.

Further consultation is expected later this year.