Two new river crossings to Newham have been announced.

But they do not go far enough, Newham’s Mayor Sir Robin Wales said in an interview with the Recorder.

Of London Mayor Boris Johnson’s unveiling of a road tunnel linking the Royal Docks to Green and a second ferry service between Gallions reach at Beckton and Thamesmead, Sir Robin said: “We have lost four valuable years since the Thames Gateway Bridge project was mothballed

“A tunnel without a further bridge at Beckton will not meet the present demand and is wholly inadequate for the increased traffic expected in the future.”

He said significant routes across the river must be delivered as soon as possible, so the East of London will have to cope with only three congested crossings while the West of London and Central London continue to enjoy the choice of over 30.”

Regeneration

He added that without a bridge, there is no integrated regeneration and transport offer in East London.

“A river crossing at Beckton is key to the regeneration of the area. Therefore, the proposed ferry must be delivered quickly.

“Both residents and businesses on the North and South sides of the River would benefit from the Thames Gateway Bridge and therefore plans for another crossing should not be forgotten.”

The Mayor and Newham Council have long campaigned for sufficient local river crossings to help relive congestion, improve daily travel for residents and local businesses and realise the economic potential of the area.