Shock plan to scrap Tube links

TWO busy London Underground stations could be scrapped under one of the options proposed for Crossrail. It was revealed today that Richmond and Kew Gardens on the District line, used by 30,000 people a day, could face the axe, prompting a furious attack from the leader of Richmond upon Thames council.

A number of options for Crossrail - the proposed £10billion east-west rail tunnel through central London - are being considered, including a link between Paddington and Kingston, Surrey, which would mean changes to the Richmond branch of the District line.

Council leader Tony Arbour said this was 'staggering news and defies belief'. He said the axing of the stations had not been mentioned when he met Crossrail planners and called the move a 'devastating possibility'.

He said: 'Crossrail has the potential to benefit Richmond but the District line must continue to serve this area.

'We want rail services to be increased, improved and enhanced for all those who live in this part of London. However, the current proposals will make things worse'.

He promised the council would 'fight the move every step of the way' and vowed a 'vigorous campaign'.

Under the plan, District line services would be replaced by Crossrail trains between Turnham Green and Richmond. Crossrail would then proceed via Paddington, through central London to Liverpool Street and beyond.

That would mean Tube commuters now using Richmond and Kew Gardens would have to change at Turnham Green for journeys to Earl's Court, Edgware and central London.

A spokesman for the Crossrail team confirmed that under the proposal for the Kingston link the existing Richmond and Kew Gardens stations would go. But he maintained there would be a better service, with 12 Crossrail trains an hour instead of the current seven or eight.

The plan is due to go to public consultation next month.

Meanwhile, Adrian Montague, deputy chairman of Network Rail, has been appointed to lead the expert team charged with examining whether Crossrail will go ahead. Transport Secretary Alistair Darling has confirmed that the Government 'remains keen' on the principle of the scheme.