"Michael Bell" wrote in message
...

So far as I remember the Crossrail project was first mooted in the
70s, more or less as a drawing lines on a map exercise. It was justified
by saying that it would relieve congestion, though in fact all its length
it
is paralleled by other routes, or simply takes them over. It is also said
that it is essential to the development of London, and here we are coming
to
the real truth. Most of the route mileage is outside of London, so it
can't
be of any benefit to to Londoners.

Exactly what map of London are you looking at...? I believe the current
Crossrail proposal includes a grand total of seven stations outside London
(Brentwood, Shenfield, Dartford, Stone Crossing, Greenhithe, Swanscobe,
Ebbsfleet).

It will effectively bring the tube to London's busiest national rail line
(Liverpool St - Shenfield), provide a new fast link from North Kent to
Docklands, the city and West End, provide a cheap fast route from Heathrow,
and relieve congestion on the Central, Circle and District lines.

Don't get me wrong, I think we need better connections too, but I don't see
Crossrail as a waste of money by any means.

Jonn