Letter to the editor: I really do not understand why councillors, MPs and the public seem dead against a river crossing in the Thamesmead area.

For years we have had to drive miles to get north of the river over clogged and polluted bridges and tunnels.

Finally there is a genuine plan to ease the strain and yet people are shooting it down before even considering the facts.

Another crossing, in whatever format, is desperately needed to make commuting to work easier for people.

Yes, there will be more cars in certain areas and more pollution in certain areas.

But surely this will lead to less cars and pollution in other areas which are choking to death, as many vehicles are bound to use the new crossing instead.

As usual there is an element of ‘not in my back yard’ about the public’s general response.

That’s why the Mayor of London needs to push the plans through regardless of people’s views.

Dave Hill, address supplied