Crossrail 2 update

Yesterday Stephen Hammond, MP for Wimbledon, announced that Crossrail 2 have confirmed to him that they are postponing the next round of consultation (due this Autumn) to at least Q2 of 2017.

I have been in contact with Crossrail 2 and they have made the following comment:
“Both the Prime Minister and the Transport Secretary have reiterated their support for Crossrail 2‎. Their priorities are an updated business case and a robust funding plan for the scheme before we proceed with further formal public consultation [in 2017].”

We are disappointed with this delay in proceedings and are in the process of writing to Michele Dix, Managing Director of Crossrail 2 and Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London to reiterate the following:

We have been, and continue to be supporters of Crossrail 2 coming to Wimbledon. Clearly however, as a business community we need an end to the uncertainty of Crossrail 2 developments and require clarity on the impact of the phasing during build which could have a serous impact on Wimbledon Town Centre. We will also request reassurance that the plans for a new station will not be compromised and that this delay will not reflect a time shift in works and completion dates.

Wimbledon businesses, residents and visitors to the town centre need to be assured of a strong delivery plan for Crossrail 2 which minimises blight, impact of works and in the long term delivers an improved, popular and enjoyable place to do business. Love Wimbledon will continue to lobby for the best possible outcome for the town.