Transport for London11/12/2003
Another step towards Woolwich for DLR
Docklands Light Railway Ltd has issued a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) calling for expressions of interest in the construction of the proposed extension to Woolwich, south London.
The ?145 million, 2.5km extension will start at King George V station at North Woolwich - the eastern terminus of the extension to London City Airport currently under construction.
The route will be under the Thames through bored tunnels, surfacing to the east of the existing Woolwich Arsenal station where a major new interchange will be formed with links to Woolwich Town Centre, national rail and local transport.
Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, places the DLR extension to Woolwich Arsenal at the heart of his plans for east and south-east London. He said, ?This is a crucial project. The Woolwich Arsenal extension will be the first of the new river crossings contained in my Transport Strategy. This extension is a vital link in the transport infrastructure necessary for major urban renewal on both sides of the Thames?.
The Public Inquiry into the project closed in June and a decision from the Secretary of State resulting in Transport & Works Act approval is expected in the New Year.
Greenwich Council Leader, Chris Roberts, said: 'The Council has consistently pressed for improvements to public transport and the success of DLR?s Greenwich/Lewisham extension demonstrates the benefit that improved links can bring for the local community and business. The arrival of the DLR in Woolwich will a considerable boost to the Borough?s regeneration strategy and will open up a wealth of new opportunities for the people of Woolwich and Plumstead?.
The OJEU notice requires expressions of interest in the project to be returned by 23 January 2004. The extension could be open by 2008.
Note to Editors
OJEU is the Official Journal of the European Community and replaces the Official Journal of the European Community (OJEC). Under European legislation, projects have to be advertised so that contracts are open to competition.
