Getting passengers from A to B as quickly and safely as possible is the aim of Boris Johnson’s transport improvement plans.

In a paper, entitled Way to Go, which was launched this week, the mayor of London outlines how he intends to develop the transport network.

Measures include:

  • Developing the overground train network to form an orbital rail equivalent to the M25.
  • Rolling out the Oyster card so it can be used on all trains.
  • More investments in policing, security and CCTV.
  • Rephasing traffic lights.
  • Making sure that Crossrail and other large infrastructure investments go ahead.
  • Introducing a Routemaster bus for the 21st century.

Mayor Boris Johnson said: “London has some fantastic transport infrastructure, but often you get the sense that solutions have been designed around the technology, rather than around the people it is supposed to serve.

“If you have to squeeze your way onto your evening bus through a crowd of swearing, fighting children, chances are you will take that stress into your evening.

Billions of pounds of investment planned

“I want to improve Londoners’ quality of life and we will be investing billions in achieving this through a host of measures to improve the experience of navigating the capital.

“Our guiding principle of value for money will mean that Londoners money is invested wisely on projects that deliver real results."

Transport watchdog London TravelWatch has mixed opinions about the mayor’s document.

Chairman Sharon Grant said: “We endorse the principles in this document, which are broadly in line with the needs of transport users in London.

“We are pleased with the importance placed on the Tube upgrades, the continuing support of Crossrail and phase 2 of the East London Line Extension as well as the emphasis on walking as an important means of getting about.”

Some reservations

But the group has reservations about some of the proposals including the new Routemaster open platform buses.

Ms Grant added: “We clearly await the greater detail that will be contained in the Transport for London business plan and the mayor’s full transport strategy for London, and look forward to further dialogue with the mayor on the travelling public’s needs and expectations.”

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