Metrolink’s benefits will exceed costs – Flynn
Metrolink interim programme director Michael Flynn has said that the assessed benefits of the programme will exceed its costs.
He was speaking on Metro Matters about his 35 years in transport infrastructure, including working on the Channel Tunnel.
Flynn (pictured) said that his first project, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), began in 1988 on derelict wasteland in East London, which is now the location that generates 5% of British GDP.
“I couldn’t understand why it was being built [at the time], it was a railway to nowhere,” Flynn said.
Massive regeneration
“But I suddenly realised this railway was a catalyst for massive regeneration in East London; I saw Canary Wharf coming up out of the water.
“It’s now home to some of the most expensive real estate anywhere in the globe,” he said.
Flynn added that those who opposed Metrolink should explain how else to transform the city for generations.
The Government recently approved the MetroLink revised projected costs for €17.5 billion (16 September) and the works will now proceed to the detailed tender stage.