Crossrail took a significant step forward and agreed a £230 million funding package from BAA, Transport Minister Andrew Adonis and BAA's Strategy Director Mike Forster have announced.

In return, Crossrail will guarantee a fast train service four times an hour for the majority of the day. This will provide direct services from Heathrow airport through central London, the City and Canary Wharf and out to Shenfield and Abbey Wood.

The construction and implementation of Crossrail will also provide a boost of at least £20 billion to the UK economy and generate an extra 30,000 jobs.

Mr Adonis said: "Crossrail is the largest addition to the transport network in 50 years, and today's announcement that BAA have confirmed a £230 million funding package for the project represents a major step towards its delivery. Business has long been a strong advocate for Crossrail and this is borne out today.

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"Trains will run four times an hour for most of the day - cutting journey times across London and the South East and significantly improving rail access to Heathrow for thousands of passengers and airport workers every day.

"This is a hugely important scheme for the country. Its implementation will help to generate new jobs, and so support the economy, as well as assist the revitalisation of some of London's most deprived areas by offering them a fast and reliable connection to the rest of the city."

Mike Forster, BAA's Strategy Director, added: "We are delighted to support the Crossrail scheme, which demonstrates our commitment to improving public transport access to Heathrow. This vital new link will directly connect the City and Canary Wharf to the airport, complementing our existing Heathrow Express service and taking thousands of cars off the roads. Crossrail will be crucial in keeping London and the UK globally competitive."

(CD/JM)