Businesses must make 'substantial contribution' to Crossrail

Transport secretary Alistair Darling has outlined the Government’s plans for the proposed Crossrail link, which will run east-west across London.

In a statement to Parliament, Mr Darling revealed that he will assemble a Government team to analyse the viability of the current proposals, and will ask Cross London Rail Links to develop clearer funding and route proposals.

He also stated that London businesses will be asked to make a ‘substantial contribution’ to the project, which is set to cost around £10bn.

The Confederation of British Industry supported the Government’s plans to develop Crossrail.

However, Digby Jones, director general of the CBI, called for a full consultation on the issue of funding, warning that ‘Business’ enthusiasm for funding Crossrail cannot be taken for granted’.

The news comes as the Mayor of London and Transport for London assume control of the Tube network under a public-private partnership agreement.