Heathrow’s third runway and other transport projects aim to transform London by 2035, enhancing connectivity and job creation across the city.
London: Rachel Reeves has approved a third runway at Heathrow Airport. This project aims to boost London’s public transport system.
Set to finish by 2035, this runway is part of several projects changing how we travel in the city. Other plans include expansions at Gatwick and Stansted airports.
They also want to improve train stations and lines around London. Here are eight key transport projects planned for the next decade.
Heathrow Airport’s Third Runway
Heathrow, Europe’s busiest airport, may finally get its long-awaited third runway. The chancellor announced plans to start construction during this parliament.
Parliament approved the runway in June 2018, despite strong local opposition. It now needs a development consent order to proceed.
Heathrow aims to create jobs and boost trade and tourism. The new runway will be north of the current one, overlooking the M4.
However, London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan opposes the runway. He cites concerns about noise, air pollution, and climate change targets.
Gatwick Airport’s Second Runway
Gatwick Airport also plans to add a second runway. They will shift the northern run-off strip by 12 meters to create more takeoff and landing space.
This £2.2 billion project could create 14,000 jobs, but local residents worry about noise and emissions. The government will decide next month.
HS2
The High Speed 2 (HS2) project has faced many challenges. The Labour administration plans to continue the fast link from London Euston to Birmingham Curzon Street.
Services between Old Oak Common and Birmingham are expected to start between 2029 and 2033. However, the project has faced budget issues and eco-campaigner opposition.
Mark Wild, in charge of HS2, said the project needs a “fundamental reset.” Despite this, work has begun on many bridges and viaducts.
Bakerloo Line Extension
Transport for London is considering extending the Bakerloo line south. This would connect Elephant and Castle to Lewisham, passing through several areas.
They need a viable funding package to build the extension. The cost is estimated between £5.2 billion and £8.7 billion, and it may not be ready until 2040.
Stansted Expansion
This year, work will start on expanding Stansted Airport’s terminal. This project could make it the second busiest airport in the capital after Heathrow.
After government approval last year, the expansion is expected to take about three years. It should be thriving by 2035.
Liverpool Street Improvements
Liverpool Street, now London’s busiest station, will get a new roof and improved gates. There are also plans for a complete redesign, but a previous proposal faced many objections.
New Overground Station in Bermondsey
The Surrey Canal station is back on the table. This would provide an Overground link in Bermondsey, near Millwall’s New Den stadium.
If approved, the station would connect Surrey Quays and Queen’s Road Peckham.
Improved Cycling Facilities
Transport for London plans to enhance cycling routes across the city. They aim to connect various areas, including Wembley and Willesden Junction.
Lime is also investing in London’s e-bike hire service, reflecting its growing popularity.
