The London Assembly today called on transport chiefs to formulate clear plans on multi-million pound river crossings put forward to ease traffic congestion in the capital.

London Assembly member Caroline Pidgeon spoke out as Transport for London wrapped up a consultation exercise on a new Thames bridge at Gallions Reach that would improve access to Barking and take pressure off the Woolwich Ferry and the Blackwall Tunnel.

Proposals also include building a new tunnel next to the Blackwall Tunnel in Greenwich, namely the Silvertown Tunnel, to further cut drivers’ journeys in east London.

But Ms Pidgeon, who chairs the assembly’s transport committee, said: “A new crossing in east London would have a significant impact on businesses and local residents.

“Transport for London must ensure that their decision process is transparent and any plans put forward are backed by strong facts and figures.

“They must reflect both the need to support different journey types and address congestion and economic regeneration concerns.”

The consultation exercise ends today. To take part, log on to tfl.gov.uk/rivercrossings.