The Association is supportive of the Crossrail project and has welcomed this Government’s commitment to take the Crossrail Bill forward in Parliament.  

We remain concerned however that there has not been funding allocated by the Government to deliver the project and that other funding from the private sector and/or Transport for London has not yet been identified.  The additional pressure on Government finances which will inevitably result from preparation for the 2012 Olympics means that setting out what funding is available is vital if the project is to be delivered in the next ten years.

There are also a number of particular concerns for freight users of the rail network resulting from the Government’s Bill.  Many construction products are transported by freight in the South East, taking freight off the roads and providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to road transport.  EWS have estimated that over 200 freight trains, moving 150,000 tonnes of goods will be disrupted every day if the Bill is implemented as currently drafted.  Particular concerns are outlined below:

a)  The Bill overrides the powers of the independent Rail Regulator

b)  The Bill overrides existing access on key arteries for rail freight operators

c)  The capacity for existing and future freight traffic will be significantly reduced both during the construction and operating phases

d)  The Bill will lead to freight being transferred from rail to road

The Association would like to see Crossrail implemented in a way which ensures minimum disruption to existing rail freight services.

For further details contact: Chris Bennett on 020 7323 3770 or email cbennett@constprod.org.uk