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Crossrail Act gives power for the railway to be built

Summer 2008

Following the Prime Minister's announcement last October that a £16 billion funding package had been secured for the construction of Crossrail, the Crossrail Bill received Royal Assent on 22nd July 2008.

Parliamentary approval of the Bill means that the project is on track to be operational for passengers in 2017. Preparatory works will start in 2009, with main construction beginning in 2010.

“I am absolutely thrilled that work can now begin on one of the largest projects ever seen in the capital, a project that is vital to the future prosperity of our city and a project that has the potential to improve the lives of many thousands of Londoners. Crossrail will shorten journey times for Londoners and visitors to our city.”

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London

The Department for Transport has appointed Cross London Rail Links (CLRL) to undertake the Crossrail works. This gives CLRL the powers to gain the necessary consents and build the railway.

Tender lists for major project contracts were released on 22nd August 2008. Announcements about the appointments of the successful bidders are expected towards the end of the year.

“This is another significant milestone for the Crossrail project as it progresses towards the construction of the railway. Crossrail is Europe's largest construction project and the appointment of our partners is critical to the success of the project. I am heartened that the tender lists for all of these important contracts are comprised of such distinguished companies.”

Douglas Oakervee OBE, Executive Chairman, Crossrail London Rail Links

The new Crossrail Act 2008 gives authority for the railway to be built. The current program for the Liverpool Street works is: