Liberal Democrats call for action on Northern Line overcrowding

10.00.00am GMT Mon 3rd Dec 2007

Streatham Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson Chris Nicholson and Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesperson on the London Assembly Geoff Pope are calling for action to alleviate overcrowding on the Northern Line.

'Overcrowding is particularly bad between Balham and Stockwell tube stations' commented Chris Nicholson.

'I usually cycle to work, but when I catch the tube from Clapham South it is not unusual to have to wait for four or more trains before I can squeeze on. It is only when lots of people get off at Stockwell to catch the Victoria line that the train becomes bearable. It is vital that action is taken to relieve this dreadful overcrowding'

Geoff Pope, who will be raising the issue with Ken Livingstone, added, 'There are things that can be done both short and long term. What about running express buses to connect up Northern Line tube stations between Balham and Stockwell to relieve the crush? Longer term the Cross River Tram from Brixton across Waterloo Bridge to Euston, Kings Cross and Camden will also help - but only if it crosses the river, which Ken Livingstone seems to be putting at risk'.