HC Deb 21 July 1997 vol 298 cc421-2W
Mr. Austin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to make an announcement on the Government's overall transport priorities for the Thames gateway area. [9946]

Ms Glenda Jackson

Our manifesto recognised the need for modern transport links to enhance accessibility and support regeneration within the Thames gateway. We are reviewing options and priorities and hope to report our conclusion later in the year.

Mr. Austin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the proposed high-tech bus link between Greenwich and Thamesmead. [9947]

Ms Jackson

None. I understand that London Transport has made a preliminary study of the Thamesmead-Greenwich area following a review of the containing dangerous or harmful goods from ships operating in UK waters. This information has been provided by the Advisory Committee on the Protection of the Sea.

potential for new forms of public transport in outer London. London Transport is working with local authorities to develop proposals.

Mr. Austin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) if he will provide financial support for the proposed Thames gateway metro; [9911]

(2) what assessment he has made of the proposed new tunnelled rail crossing linking the North London line in the royal docks with the North Kent line at Woolwich Arsenal; and if he will make a statement; [9910]

(3) what assessment he has made of the regeneration potential of the proposed Thames gateway metro. [9945]

Ms Jackson

A study of the Woolwich rail tunnel, the potential for Thames gateway metro services and the regeneration benefits these may offer is being undertaken for my Department as part of a study of potential new east Thames river crossings. I expect this to be completed by the autumn. Consideration of these proposals will be made in the light of the study's findings and our fundamental review of transport policy. Regeneration benefits of the Thames gateway metro will be examined using the appraisal framework my Department is developing.