Renewed hope for Crystal Palace tram (From Croydon Guardian)

Renewed hope for Crystal Palace tram

11:39am Tuesday 6th January 2009 in Search By Peter Truman

Trams may yet come to Crystal Palace after the Mayor of London announced his support for the scheme he previously scrapped.

Boris Johnson was rounded on by Crystal Palace residents and businesses for abandoning the Tramlink extension plans last November.

At the time he blamed a £170m funding black hole left by former mayor Ken Livingstone.

But as pressure mounted from Mr Livingstone, councillors and Croydon Central MP Andrew Pelling, Mr Johnson has joined them in trying to gain funding for the extension.

In a letter to Mr Pelling, Mr Johnson said deciding to scrap the scheme was “tough”, adding: “I sincerely hope that the funds will be provided to make this happen, and I am happy to work with you and other key local stakeholders to lobby for this scheme.”

Mr Johnson said Transport for London would conduct a wider study of those boroughs affected as part of plans.

Ray Hall, chairman of Crystal Palace and Norwood Chamber of Commerce, said: “For South London to thrive, Crystal Palace, with its world class name, has to be a destination on the world stage.

“The Tramlink extension is vital to that end. I would be pleased to join in any discussion that could help make it happen.”

What do you think of the extension? Leave your comments below.