'This is great news for London and the UK - a real boost that business and commuters have all been waiting for,' he said.

'The Secretary of State's announcement clears the way for us to proceed with a public information and awareness programme that will include the London stations where large volumes of passengers are likely to benefit from Crossrail.

'Later in the year, extensive public consultation will be carried out along the selected routes. With time to incorporate any changes to the final scheme, the draft hybrid Bill for constructing Crossrail will be ready for submission to Parliament later in 2004.

'Our expert team of more than 200 people is ready to press ahead and - we can now concentrate on delivering Crossrail to the public.'

Norman Haste, CLRL's Chief Executive, also welcomed the news, saying: 'Although there is much work to do, we are on course to deliver the answer to many of London's transport headaches.

The Secretary of State's announcement is the right step towards ensuring that London can cope with the expected growth in travellers during the next decade.

'Later this year we will give notice of the consultation programme outlined by the Secretary of State following discussion with the Department of Transport (DfT).

'We are also grateful for all the support and encouragement given by Transport for London (TfL), the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) and the business community.'

The widespread political, business and stakeholder support there has been for this project demonstrates just how important Crossrail is to the UK. 'London and the regions have been united in support of our scheme.'

Added Sir Christopher: 'Everyone is in agreement - London and the UK need Crossrail, and now we're on course to meet their expectations.'

Important aspects of the announcement include the directions by the Department for Transport to consult on CLRL's preferred route which includes routes to the East and West and the already safeguarded central section.

Ends

For further information contact:
Ian Rathbone, Media Manager
Tel: 020 7150 8760
Fax: 020 7941 7748
Mb: 07739 226 285
E-mail: ianrathbone@crossrail.co.uk

Issued 14 July 2003

Note to editors:

1. Cross London Rail Links Ltd is a 50/50 joint venture between Transport for London (TfL) and the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA). The company has been allocated £154m from the Department for Transport's 10-Year Plan to carry out feasibility work and to acquire powers for Crossrail Lines 1 and 2.