#Bakernooisham - southern extension consultation launches today

TfL's public consultation on the southern extension of the Bakerloo Line opens later today. The options for the line, include a route via Camberwell and Peckham or a route via the Old Kent Road with both routes converging on New Cross Gate and then on to Ladywell and Catford. Mayorwatch reports:

Michèle Dix, TfL’s Managing Director of Planning, has also said the line could be connected with the rail line to Hayes “which would mean existing rail services would no longer operate on this line, but the Bakerloo line would operate instead.”

A further option allows for the line to be extended to Beckenham Junction to connect with the Tramlink or Bromley town centre.

Lewisham Labour has launched an opportunistic petition, calling for the line to come to Lewisham, which seems a little redundant, other than as a way of getting some reflected glory for the project, when it comes. They're also studiously avoiding mentioning which route they prefer, lest they upset anyone, but it seems fairly obvious that they would favour the New Cross route, on the basis of its regeneration potential.

However, they deserve some credit for making the case for the line over the last few years and for coining the natty name Bakerlooisham (which should of course be #Bakernooisham).

The new line is slated to begin operating in 2040, but the smart money is on this project being brought forward by a decade or so, as South East London transport overheats.

Click here to take part in the consultation.