Responding to the launch of Boris Johnson’s transport manifesto today (Monday 26 March 2012) which includes a commitment to building additional river crossings in East London for vehicles, and an increase in air capacity for the South East, Friends of the Earth's London Campaigner Jenny Bates said:

“Boris’s transport manifesto is speeding off in completely the wrong direction.

“Rather than solve the capital’s transport problems Boris’ road and river-crossings plans would generate more congestion and pollution – instead we need better public transport and cycling facilities which will benefit all Londoners.

“A new Thames Estuary airport would have a devastating impact on local communities and wildlife and make tackling climate change harder.

“We don’t need extra airport capacity in the South East – London already has more flights to the world’s main business destinations than our European neighbours and better use could be made of existing capacity at Heathrow.”

NOTES:

1.    Boris Johnson’s transport manifesto 

2.    Read Friends of the Earth’s response to the Transport for London’s recent consultation on new river crossings for vehicles in east London here, with the following attachment - Professor Phil Goodwin’s article on traffic generation. 

3.    Airportwatch report: International Air Connectivity for Business.

4.    Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. More than 90 per cent of our income comes from individuals so we rely on donations to continue our vital work.