Crossrail 2 could be opened by 2029 – four years earlier than initially proposed – the Mayor announced today as he published revised plans for the multi-billion pound link.  Tweaks to the Surrey to Hertfordshire scheme include a realignment of the route in Hackney, an alternative station in Chelsea, and extending the northern branch from Alexandra Palace to New Southgate. Some 14,000 people responded to the initial public consultation which found overwhelming support for the link and their feedback has prompted the changes.

The first public consultation last year identified some potential changes to the route which may offer further passenger benefits, better value for money and potentially better opportunities for local growth and regeneration to increase the supply of housing and jobs.

A second consultation was launched on 9.6.2014 to finalise the proposed route before the land can be legally safeguarded.  Deputy Mayor for transport Isabel Dedring said: “The approach has been for the regeneration impact to influence the route up front. The consequences for Crossrail 2 would go well beyond transport to regeneration and housing benefits.