Consultation has been launched on proposals for improved, fast public transport services connecting the Kent areas of Ebbsfleet, Dartford, Slade Green, Erith and Belvedere with Abbey Wood.

The proposals by the Crossrail to Ebbsfleet (C2E) Partnership would provide faster connections into London and to other parts of Kent. They would make journeys by public transport quicker and more attractive and reduce the need for trips by car.

The C2E Partnership was formed in 2016 as an informal group of authorities to promote an extension of the Elizabeth Line beyond its current planned terminus at Abbey Wood towards Ebbsfleet.

It is comprised of stakeholders that represent local communities in the area including: Kent County Council, London Borough of Bexley, Dartford Borough Council, Gravesham Borough Council, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, and the Thames Gateway Kent Partnership.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Michael Payne said: “We’re now at the stage where we want to hear from residents’ about five potential options. Three of the options are for extending the Elizabeth Line from its current planned terminus at Abbey Wood towards Dartford and Ebbsfleet.

“One is to improve existing rail services to connect into the Elizabeth Line at Abbey Wood and one is to provide a new Bus Rapid transport scheme from Abbeywood to Ebbsfleet, building on the existing Fastrack network in Kent. This is an opportunity for residents and businesses to give their views on how important improved public transport links are to them.

“By responding to this consultation, residents and businesses can demonstrate to Government how important new public transport links are to the future of this area.”