To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what amendments have been made to plans for Crossrail at (a) Romford depot, (b) Romford train station and (c) Gidea Park sidings; and if he will make a statement. (104988)

On 7 November, we laid amendments before the House that would (among other things):

(a) provide for an alternative depot strategy that would eliminate the need for a depot at Romford;

(b) provide for a step free access ramp on the south side of Romford Station; and

(c) provide an alternative access route to the Gidea Park sidings.

In the event that the alternative depot strategy is not accepted by Parliament, we have proposed revised worksites in connection with the Romford depot scheme. This would avoid any permanent loss of sports pitches from Westlands playing fields and reduce the temporary losses during construction.

Further information is provided by the Environmental Statement for the Additional Provisions laid before the House on 7 November.