Commenting on the launch of a new cable car across the Thames today (Thursday 28 June 2012) - the day after the Mayor announced progress on plans for a four lane road tunnel at the same location, Friends of the Earth’s London Campaigner Jenny Bates said:

“This cable car is exactly the sort of river crossing London needs.

“But plans to build new Thames road tunnels or bridges in east London must be scrapped – this would create more traffic, more congestion and more air pollution.

“Urgent action is needed to improve the capital’s killer air quality - this must include developing schemes that encourage people to drive less, not more.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1.    Transport for London - Cable car across the Thames: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/projectsandschemes/15959.aspx

2.    Transport for London's announcement on the Silvertown road tunnel (a proposal for the same location as the cable car): http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/media/newscentre/24377.aspx

3.    Friends of the Earth's response to Transport for London's ‘initial’ consultation on two proposed river crossings for vehicles including the Silvertown road tunnel:http://www.foe.co.uk/resource/press_releases/thames_gateway_road_bridge_06112008.html

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