A RIVER crossing is yet again proposed for Thamesmead just five years after homeowners thought the idea was dead in the water.

Following two consultations this year, Boris Johnson is proposing a ferry link from Gallions Reach in Thamesmead to Beckton as well as a tunnel connecting Greenwich peninsula to Silvertown.

In 2008, News Shopper reported how Boris Johnson scrapped plans to build the six-lane Thames Gateway bridge across the Thames at Thamesmead following a series of campaigns staged by protestors.

But the Mayor has now published a new consultation asking: "To what extent would you support or oppose the option of constructing a new bridge or tunnel at Gallions Reach by around 2031 if a ferry does not adequately address the area’s needs?"

London Assembly Green Party member Darren Johnson slammed Mr Johnson's consultation saying: "The proposal for a ferry at Gallions Reach is a stepping stone for the introduction of a ‘tunnel by stealth’.

"A road crossing would generate larger volumes of traffic than a ferry and the increase in air pollution would have a serious impact on peoples' health.

"Local residents have previously expressed their opposition to a road crossing and the idea was knocked back at a public inquiry.

"The Mayor should listen to those who have made their feelings on this issue very clear."

The Mayor hit back saying: "I've not ruled out the possibility a fixed link may be desirable in the longer term if appropriate infrastructure is provided to address congestion at the Blackwall tunnel and Dartford Crossing, thereby reducing the likelihood of strategic traffic using residential roads in Bexley.

"However I have made clear my opposition to the construction of the previously proposed Thames Gateway Bridge, which would have been a large strategic road crossing, which would have attracted too much traffic from the congested Blackwall and Dartford crossings on either side."

Have your say at consultations.tfl.gov.uk

Reaction to the plans

Unit Manager at Hawwkesmore Youth Club Claire Hallinan, aged 36, said: "With Greenwich being so developed, the Thamesmead area needs revival and these new plans could bring much needed revenue to the area. Noise pollution is a small concern with regards to development."

Assistant Manager at Brantano Shoes Lisa Rainbow, who lives in Dylan Road said: "Brantano is an out of town outlet with partner stores in Thurrock. If there's more traffic is coming into Thamesmead it will benefit Brantano and the whole Thamesmead retail park. More traffic means more customers."

Jacqui Wise, who founded Action Group Against the Bridge in response to the Thames Gateway Bridge project said: "The ferry crossing would have traffic implications for the area which will, by stealth, create the demand locally for a Thames Gateway Bridge type crossing."