FIRST GROUP proposes to construct the Chelsea-Hackney line if its bid for the 20 year South West Trains franchise is successful.
Under the plans, First Group would construct a tunnel under the Thames, carrying trains from Wimbledon to Chelsea and on to Kings Cross.
The tunnel would not be started until the final third of the franchise. This corresponds with the Government's ten year plan for transport which states that only preparatory work will be carried out on the project within its time span.
The line would give customers in the South West Trains area direct access into central London and relieve pressure on the Wimbledon to Waterloo line. It would also reduce congestion on the Underground and bus routes from Waterloo.
First Group has joined with the Dutch rail company Nederlandse Spoorwegen for the bid.
The joint venture would also consider bringing in Dutch style double decker trains. Improvements in home to station links, and station improvements, are also planned.
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