The Bridge East London proposal suggests a new road bridge over the River Thames, linking Beckton and Thamesmead at Gallions Reach. The proposed bridge would allow clear passage for ships and takes into account aircraft taking off or landing at City Airport.
The London Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) is running a campaign and petition in support of the proposal for a new bridge on the eastern stretch of the Thames. LCCI chief executive Colin Stanbridge said: "Nearly half of London's population lives east of Tower Bridge yet they are served by only two fixed road river crossings. It is an area with huge amounts of potential and while the Olympics acted as a crucible for creativity and dynamism in the area, its future growth is being held back by this gap in transport infrastructure."
HOK director Richard Gammon said: "If the full potential of east London is to be harnessed and maximised to the benefit of our growing city, then we need to provide catalysts to enable that potential to flourish. Improving connectivity and accessibility is a key element of this regenerative process, and we strongly believe that a new bridge in this location will act as a powerful stimulant to growth, the strengthening of local communities and businesses, and the enhancement of the local environment."
Arup director Stephanos Samaras said: "London's infrastructure is already under pressure and as the city's population continues to grow it is more important than ever that we provide better accessibility and connectivity to integrate communities. Infrastructure projects such as Crossrail are going a long way to help increase capacity but this proposed bridge could provide a much needed link for east London."
