CAMPAIGNERS fighting to get a station at Woolwich as part of the £16bn Crossrail network have had a breakthrough thanks to a Government U-turn.

The Transport Secretary, Douglas Alexander, has given Greenwich Council another chance to argue its case for the £270m station.

Last month, the secretary of state made the shock decision not to include Woolwich on the grounds of affordability despite a House of Commons select committee pledging its support on July 25.

But now the Government has agreed to reconsider the option for a Woolwich station after a House of Commons debate.

Greenwich Council will work with Cross London Rail Link, (CLRL) to reduce the cost of the station and examine the station's design and construction in detail.

Greenwich and Woolwich MP Nick Raynsford said: "I welcome the Government's agreement to look further at the option for a Woolwich station on Crossrail.

"With further consideration, which could be done on design, construction and the cost of the station, which I'm confident can be identified, the case for Woolwich will become irresistible."

The campaign for a Woolwich station has received the support of thousands of residents, the business community and all political parties.

The area would benefit from 2,300 extra jobs, 4,350 new homes and regeneration if a Woolwich station is built.

Greenwich Council leader Councillor Chris Roberts says he is looking forward to working with CLRL to see where further savings can be made to the cost of a Woolwich station.

He said: "I'm greatly encouraged and thankful the Secretary of State has provided an opportunity to look once again into the merits of Woolwich station.

"We are confident we will be able to convince the Government a Woolwich station will add to the overall benefits of the wider Crossrail scheme."

CLRL will report back its findings to the secretary of state early next year before the Crossrail select committee makes its decision.

  • What do you think? Let us know below.