London's transport schemes under threat, claims report

London's transport plans are in a financial 'black hole' with a funding gap of £35bn, according to a study by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Researchers have discovered that 64 schemes are under consideration, including new Tube and train lines and more bus and tram routes, but there is not enough money to implement them.

Between £53bn-£76bn is required, but the funding gap of about £35bn means that many schemes will not even reach the drawing board.

Schemes without funding include the East London line extensions, Thameslink 2000, Croydon Tramlink extensions and the DLR extension to City airport.

Of the 16 transport links listed in the report, those already funded are the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, London Underground PPP, the West London line and A13 upgrade.

"The future of London as a leading world city will be seriously compromised," said the report's author Jim Whelan. "There is little agreement as to who will pay, or what the priorities are."