Council leaders across east London are calling for the government to add an ‘eastern phase’ to the proposed Crossrail 2 route.

In a study extolling its benefits, they are recommending that the track splits after Angel station, with one line heading east through Hackney, Newham, and Barking and Dagenham, while the other continues north as currently planned.

The new line, which is set to run from stations in Surrey to Hertfordshire, would then link to the existing Essex Thameside network, with services terminating at Basildon and Grays.

According to the study, commissioned by councils in Newham, Barking and Dagenham, Hackney, and Essex, trains would run every four minutes between Hackney and Barking and provide a £20.5bn boost to the economy.

Robin Wales, Mayor of Newham, said: “Over the next 25 years London’s population growth will be concentrated in the east and Thames Gateway. Newham is already home to the largest regeneration projects in the country, alongside this and developments taking place in the surrounding areas, vital infrastructure is needed to accommodate the projected jobs and growth.

“The government has historically failed to fund infrastructure in East London and have held this part of the city back for too long. Investing in Crossrail 2 with an Eastern Phase would help deliver further economic benefits to the capital and deliver the huge potential of the area. The government must not miss this opportunity.”

What do you think of Cross Rail 2 coming to Newham? Email phoebe.cooke@archant.co.uk