It’s way to easy to blame TfL and the Mayor. TfL has got huge financial problems thanks to Covid (not of course forgetting the massive cost overruns on Crossrail) so his/their hands are effectively tied. The Dept for Transport has to take responsibility here, in my view. It’s a strategic link that many people have relied on. School kids living across the river from their school, commuters who would normally cross daily, you name it. Wandsworth and Richmond councils, both local MPs, the Mayor and other interested parties have to form a strong and vocal lobby rather like the anti Heathrow coalition to get the government to engage. We all know public finances are hugely stretched but this must be made a priority. So let’s put the political stuff to one side and focus on forming a strong cross party coalition to pressure the government at every turn and at every level.
Jonathan Callaway ● 2052d