Plans to 'stretch' the Northern Line and build a new station in Merton have been included in a series of ambitious transport proposals compiled by the leaders of south London councils.

The line would use the current sidings running through the south of the borough and is part of a list of transport priorities presented to Ken Livingstone and Boris Johnson in the run up to the London Mayoral elections.

The Tramlink has also been earmarked for an extension as part of the proposals with Wimbledon being connected to Sutton.

"There's a real chance that these ideas will be taken seriously," said Merton Council leader David Williams.

"Yes, it's aspirational but if you don't dare to dream it will never happen."

Both Livingstone and Johnson have agreed to consider the plans after recent visits to the borough where they were presented with the proposals.

Mr Williams added: "It makes sense to do this because it won't require tunnelling and while it may well cost tens of millions of pounds, it will increase the connectivity of the area enormously by running the Northern Line as far as St Helier.

"And the extension of the Tramlink to Sutton will make a huge difference to the orbital network, improving accessibility and taking cars off the road. It will also open up more job opportunities."

According to the leader of Merton Council, Greater London Authorities statistics also suggest there is potential for economic growth in the area but it is being "suffocated" by poor transport links.