Local Liberal Democrat councillor and parliamentary candidate Farooq Qureshi has met with representatives from Transport for London (TFL) to discuss how they are working with the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) were working together to secure transport improvements for the area in the build up to the 2012 Olympic games
A number of issues regarding transport infrastructure were discussed, with the Lib Dems Leyton and Wanstead parliamentary hopeful positive about the meeting and the awareness from TFL of customer concerns.
The Hall Farm Curve rail link, historically at the top of the local transport agenda, was discussed. Despite confirmation that the restoration of the service was not part of immediate plans, TFL representatives said that, as a service partner for the Olympics, it would be prepared to work with the ODA if the 2012 body wanted to investigate the Hall Farm Curve as part of the Olympic infrastructure.
Other issues discussed included:
· Easing ‘exit’ congestion at Leyton and Leytonstone underground stations by opening up additional exits in peak periods.
· The need for better and more frequent bus routes for both Leyton and Leytonstone High Roads, including improved connections with the rest of the borough and improved services to and from Stratford.
· Improved accessibility for disabled passengers at Leyton Tube Station.
· The refurbishment of Leyton Midland and Leytonstone High road stations on the Barking and Gospel Oak lines, including lightning, platform information systems.
After the meeting, Cllr Qureshi said:
“I am very pleased that TFL were prepared to listen to residents concerns about our local transport infrastructure and what benefits 2012 could provide for local public transport links.
“Good and easily accessible public transport is vital for a sustainable economy in Leyton and Wanstead. It plays an enormous part in efforts to bring much needed economic prosperity to our area.”
Regular meetings between TFL and ODA will include ward councillors and special interest groups so that they can have an input into priority transport improvements in the area.