Boris raises spectre of Thames Gateway Bridge

However, the Mayor's transport strategy released this week outlines short-term plans for a new vehicle ferry in a similar spot in Gallions Reach, as well as a "long-term fixed link".

Proposal 39 of the strategy includes "consideration of a longer-term fixed link at Gallions Reach to improve connectivity for local traffic, buses, cyclists and to support economic development in the area".

It also calls for a new fixed link at Silvertown to relieve Blackwall Tunnel congestion, an upgraded Woolwich Ferry and improved local pedestrian and cycle links.

The strategy said: "The recent TfL review of potential river crossing sites and options identified several areas where more investigation and work is warranted.

"The package of options to develop river crossings will have regard to the needs of all potential users, including vehicles, freight, public transport, walking and cycling."

The Mayor also confirmed he was looking into long-term plans for a bridge when quizzed on the subject at Mayor's Question Time earlier this month.

London Assembly member John Biggs said: "There are many people who want to see this bridge built, and many jobs that could be provided by a crossing over the Thames.

"It doesn't take a genius to work out that building a crossing is good for east London.

"The net effect of this decision is to delay this proposal for several years and that's pretty tragic for east London. He's sabotaged an important element of the area's growth."

A spokesman for the Mayor's office argued that the Mayor had never ruled out any crossing at that point.

He said: "What I think he said was that the idea of the Thames Gateway Bridge, which was a big six-lane motorway going across the water, was entirely inappropriate and will not be built.

"He always said that another crossing was needed, but it won't look like that.

"The lilkelihood is that he will look at a tunnel or bridge option, but that it won't be like the Thames Gateway Bridge."