The Boat Race’s global audience of over 120 million was a powerful reminder of the importance of the Thames Tunnel. Protecting the tidal Thames is a ‘must do’, not just for rowers.
It has to be a priority for everyone who uses or enjoys the river. So it’s reassuring that the vast majority of people who responded to our phase one consultation agree we need to tackle sewer discharges to the river. As our Feedback Report shows, most also recognised that the Thames Tunnel is the best way of solving the problem.
The difficulty is selecting the sites for constructing and operating the tunnel. Helped by the feedback we received on our initial proposals for the scheme, we are making progress on deciding the precise combination of sites required. There remains much do, of course. Submitting a planning consent application is not scheduled till June 2012.
Before then we need to consult on our revised plans. Due for publication this autumn, these will, where possible, reflect the comments we have received to date, as well as the latest advances in our design. In some cases this means that we will need to evaluate new potential sites, such as Chambers Wharf and Carnwath Road Riverside.
One thing remains unchanged: our commitment to engage communities surrounding all possible sites.
Phil Stride, Head of London Tideway Tunnels
On 31 March we released our report on the first phase of consultation for the proposed Thames Tunnel. It details the feedback we received on the project (13 September 2010 – 14 January 2011) and how we have amended our plans in light of this. Planning Manager Clare Gibbons said: “Phase one consultation was about sharing our initial proposals for the tunnel route and sites, and we received 2,389 feedback forms, 477 letters or emails, and five petitions. “While most people supported the need for the tunnel, respondents identified a range of local issues specific to our 23 preferred sites.
The report outlines how we might modify our plans, where appropriate. Key changes arising from our consultation include fewer sites, scaling down of permanent works, and consideration of alternative sites.” “We’ve already announced that potential alternative sites have emerged for King’s Stairs Gardens and Barn Elms Playing Fields.” You can download a copy of the report at www.thamestunnelconsultation.co.uk. To request a copy call 0845 366 2950 or email thames.tunnel@thameswater.co.uk.
The Report on Phase One Consultation is comprised of a summary report, the main report (including appendices) and a supplementary report. The supplementary report sets out comprehensively and in detail all the issues raised, and the response to these issues. Clare Gibbons said: “We appreciate the time people spent telling us what they liked and didn’t like about our proposals so far. Their feedback has helped us better understand the local issues and will help shape the future direction of our plans.”
Some of the key findings
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