TfL plans cable car to cross the Thames

Transport for London says that the crossing could be open ahead of the 2012 Olympics.  

TfL says no consultancies have yet been appointed to the project and any proposals will be subject to planning approval.

Although a tender has not yet been put out, a TFL spokesperson says, ‘We’re in the early stages of development, but will provide further information to the architectural and design community in due course.’ 

Sitting 50m above the water, the cable car will ferry 2500 passengers an hour and be open to pedestrians, people with reduced mobility and cyclists.

The scheme, which links Olympic and Paralympics venues The 02 and the Excel exhibition centre, has been prompted by Mayor of London Boris Johnson’s plan to provide more river crossings east of Tower Bridge.

‘Passengers would be able to drink in the truly spectacular views of the Olympic Park and iconic London landmarks, while shaving valuable minutes from their travelling time,’ says Johnson.