(P149) Tram will 'definitely' extend to The Palace - The Croydon Post 29 September 2004

The Mayor of London told a meeting of the Association of London Government last week that the Tramlink extension will "definitely go ahead".

And with the extension of the East London Line to West Croydon set to proceed, he believes it makes sense for the Tube and tram extensions to meet up at Crystal Palace.

Transport for London (TfL) will now look at the proposal and decide whether to include the scheme in its budget.

The news was welcomed by traders, who say business is suffering because of a lack of parking, and Croydon Council, which has been lobbying for the extension.

Council Leader Hugh Malyan said:

"The arrival of fast and regular tram services and frequent stops will be a boon for residents and will underpin the viability of existing businesses while helping to attract new investment to the area.
"It is the key to unlocking the visitor potential to Crystal Palace Park and will be an attractive alternative to car use in what is becoming an increasingly congested part of the capital.
"What is perhaps the most exciting aspect of the Mayor's enthusiasm for the project is the prospect of simultaneously lining up with the East London Line extension."

Sue Nagel of Triangle Traders, an association of retailers in Upper Norwood, said:

"As long as it is planned properly, so it doesn't cut into any more of the Park or make the traffic worse, I can't see how anyone can be against it.
"If people could get to the shops by tram rather than driving, that would be great.
"It'll also be good for people working in Croydon to be able to get the tram there."

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2/10/04 Last Updated 2/10/04