Controversial tram plan derailed

The trams scheme was highly controversial

Controversial plans for a tram system in west London have been scrapped in favour of buses.

Mayor Ken Livingstone said it would be more practical for buses to run between Uxbridge and Shepherd's Bush once the Crossrail project was up and running.

He said the high-speed rail link across central London, which has yet to be approved, would "significantly increase public transport capacity" in the area.

Opponents feared the tram would increase traffic in residential roads.

Different solutions

Transport for London (TfL) proposed the tram saying it would be a massive investment, boost the economy and make travel much easier in west London.

But Ealing Council opposed the £650m scheme amid concerns of increased congestion and a downturn in trade.

Ken Livingstone said: "A positive decision on Crossrail will mean that substantially improved bus services become a practical alternative to a tram along the Uxbridge Road to meet the need for more public transport, boost the local economy and to deal with rising congestion in the area."

Welcoming the decision councillor Jason Stacey, of Ealing Council, said: "Residents have overwhelmingly expressed the view that the proposed West London Tram was not the answer to the area's transport problems.

"Ealing's traffic problems require different solutions and we will be working constructively with TfL to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in the borough."