Merton’s Conservative elected representatives welcome the launch of a consultation on extending Tramlink so that it connects Wimbledon directly to Sutton via Morden.
This consultation follows many years of lobbying by Wimbledon’s MP Stephen Hammond together with Merton’s Conservative councillors and local Assembly Member, Richard Tracey. We would therefore encourage local residents and businesses to give their views on the proposed extension before the consultation deadline on Sunday 17 August 2014.
Wimbledon is a major transport hub and the Tramlink extension would further enhance connections to the town centre as well as bringing potential benefits for residents in and around Morden. With the economy recovering and commitments from George Osborne and the Mayor of London on long term investment in transport infrastructure, under a Conservative led Government, this long discussed project now looks likely to happen. And having already increased capacity on the existing tram line by 50%, Boris Johnson’s long standing commitment to Tramlink is really paying dividends for our area.
Just like the residents we speak to, local Conservatives have of course been studying closely the alternative options put forward by Merton and Sutton councils. There are a number of questions that need to be answered, such as the capacity of Wimbledon station for all trams to start and end at this one location and the effect of a 'South Wimbledon Loop' on traffic.
Stephen Hammond’s community email talked about precisely this last week and if people wish to receive his community email with further updates, they can subscribe by emailing agent@wimbledonconservatives.org.uk.
However, what is crucial is that the costs of the final route remain affordable and that any disruption to residents and local neighbourhoods is minimised and green spaces and playing fields protected. Improved access to St Helier hospital, particularly for those living in and around Morden, will also be an important consideration.
Time is short. I urge people to respond to the consultation at www.suttonmertontramlink.co.uk and ensure their voices are heard.
Councillor Stephen Crowe
Conservative transport spokesman
- Send your letters to: letters@wimbledonguardian.co.uk
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