Delay local Crossrail 2 branch to save cash- says National Infrastructure Commission

Today, (10th March) the Government’s National Infrastructure Commission has suggested improving the affordability of Crossrail 2, by delaying the local branch to Wood Green and New Southgate. Haringey Lib Dems have expressed concerns that delaying the local branch of Crossrail 2 would have a big impact on plans to regenerate the local area.

The local Crossrail 2 branch is expected to run from central London up to New Southgate either via Alexandra Palace Station and Turnpike Lane Station or via Wood Green Station.

Lord Adonis, Chair of the Commission, made the recommendation for the delay to the local branch with the aim of reducing the cost of Crossrail 2 in the 2020s by around £4 billion.

Haringey Council is currently consulting on plans to regenerate Wood Green. In their response to the consultation the Lib Dems raised concerns that the plans were heavily reliant on Crossrail 2 coming to Wood Green.

The Lib Dems are now calling on the Labour-run council to think again and provide an alternative plan should the local Crossrail 2 branch be delayed until the 2030s as recommended by the NIC (National Infrastructure Commission).

Cllr Gail Engert, Haringey Lib Dem Leader of the Opposition, comments:

“The Lib Dems support Crossrail 2 and want to see Crossrail Stations at Turnpike Lane and Alexandra Palace as soon as possible. We are disappointed that Lord Adonis has recommended delaying the local Crossrail 2 branch.

“We are calling on the Labour-run Council to think again about their plans to regenerate Wood Green. They must provide an alternative plan in case the local Crossrail 2 branch is delayed, as recommended by Lord Adonis. The current plans are too reliant on Crossrail 2 coming to Wood Green Station.”

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