Second C2E consultation on proposals to improve transport links has opened.
People are again being urged to help shape exciting plans for improved, fast public transport services connecting Ebbsfleet, Dartford, Slade Green, Erith and Belvedere with Abbey Wood.
The proposals would provide faster connections into London and to other parts of Kent. They would make journeys by public transport quicker and more attractive and reduce the need for trips by car.
Following a consultation with the public in early 2021, the transport proposals have been further developed to focus on three potential schemes.
The three options being consulted on are:
- The Elizabeth line continuing from its current planned terminus at Abbey Wood, stopping at all stations towards Gravesend, and sharing the same tracks as the Southeastern services on the North Kent Line.
- The Elizabeth line continuing from its current planned terminus at Abbey Wood, stopping at all stations to Dartford, on new segregated tracks next to the existing North Kent Line.
- A low cost option, which focuses on providing more rail services between Northfleet and Abbey Wood to connect to the Elizabeth line services there. This would be accompanied by a new Bus Rapid Transit service linking stations between Abbey Wood and Northfleet with their surrounding areas.
Cllr Teresa O’Neill, Leader of Bexley Council and Chairman of the C2E Partnership said: “We were pleased to see so many residents and businesses provide their views as part of the public consultation held earlier this year. Your views have been vital to help develop the plans for much needed new public transport investment. There was a clear preference to move forward with options to operate the Elizabeth line east of Abbey Wood, which was part of the original proposition for the line, so two of three options are focused on delivering that. ’
“By giving their views, residents can help make the case to Government on why enhanced public transport is necessary. So I encourage everyone to have their say by visiting the consultation link before it closes on 3 September.”
You can respond to the consultation here: www.Abbeywood2ebbsfleet.com
Consultation closes on 3 September 2021.
The C2E Partnership was formed in 2016 as an informal group of authorities to promote the Elizabeth line beyond its current planned terminus at Abbey Wood towards Ebbsfleet as originally proposed. It is comprised of stakeholders that represent local communities in the area including:
- London Borough of Bexley
- Dartford Borough Council
- Gravesham Borough Council
- Ebbsfleet Development Corporation
- Kent County Council
- Greater North Kent Partnership
In 2019, Government allocated funding for a major study to assess and develop a range of different transport options (including both Elizabeth line and lower cost options) in order to support new housing and employment growth along the corridor. The C2E Partnership is responsible for the delivery of this study.
Of the respondents to the consultation held in January – March 2021, 98% agreed that public transport should be improved, with 94% preferring an Elizabeth line solution from Abbey Wood.