In 2006, the Department for Transport predicted that, by 2037, annual cross-channel passenger numbers would probably reach 16 million,[134] considerably less optimistic than London and Continental Railways's original 1996 forecast.[2] In 2007 Eurostar set a target of carrying 10 million passengers by 2010.[135] The company cited several factors to support this objective, such as improved journey times, punctuality and station facilities.