PM launches start of Crossrail construction

By Rob Virtue on May 15, 2009 9:57 AM |

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Prime Minister Gordon Brown hailed Crossrail "a massive economic boost for the City" as he launched the beginning of building the railway route on Friday morning.

Mr Brown was giving a speech at the East Wintergardens just yards away from where the Canary Wharf Crossrail station is due to open in 2017.

He said: "Many people said it would never be built, but today we are celebrating a defining moment for London as Crossrail construction gets underway.

"Crossrail will not only mean fast journey times across the capital and beyond, it will also bring a massive economic boost to the city, creating thousands of jobs and adding at least £20 billion to our economy."

The station will be in North Dock between Canary Wharf and North Quay and will be one of the largest on the network.

Friday saw the launch of the first of nearly 400 18.5 metre tall steel piles that will form its base.

The PM was joined by Canary Wharf Group's George Iacobescu and London Mayor Boris Johnson at the event.

Mr Johnson said: "The years of hesitation, irresolution and vacillation are over. The shovels have tasted earth and the construction of a railway that is crucial to the economic prosperity of this great city has begun."