Laura Reynolds

TfL Announces Plans For New Ferry Between Rotherhithe And Canary Wharf

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TfL has announced proposal for a new turn-up-and-go ferry service between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf.

The service will be for pedestrians and cyclists, and accessible for people with mobility issues, with adequate space for bicycles and cargo bikes. It will link up to proposed cycle routes in Southwark on the south side of the river, and Tower Hamlets on the north side, including the Thames Path and the proposed Rotherhithe Cycleway along Lower Road and Rotherhithe Street, and new cycle routes between Hackney and the Isle of Dogs.

The addition of new cycle docking stations on existing and new cycle routes in the area, including those planned to link into the new pier at Rotherhithe, is another option TfL is considering.

The announcement comes after plans for a walking and cycling bridge across the Thames at that point were ditched due to costs in July 2019. Since then, TfL has been working to come up with a more affordable crossing for the area, with the ferry idea currently the frontrunner.

Heidi Alexander, Deputy Mayor for Transport said:

We are absolutely committed to improving cross-river connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in east London where there is a pressing need. This new rapid ferry service between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf would make it even easier for Londoners to get around the capital by bike or on foot and would bring a boost to businesses in the area.

It's still early days. TfL is currently working with specialist consultants on designs for both the ferries, and pier locations. Sponsorship and subsidy options are also being considered, which could result in the service being free for customers to use.

A public consultation is due to be launched in summer 2020, with construction expected to begin in 2021.

Keep up to date on the Rotherhithe-Canary Wharf crossing.