Assembly response to Thames Tunnel proposals

The Health and Public Services Committee supports the building of a new tunnel under the River Thames to tackle sewage overflow problems caused by rainfall, however a number of issues need to be addressed.

Key Concerns

Cost to customers - We are concerned that the full costs of the Tunnel to Londoners are not yet known. Thames Water has estimated that customers will face an additional charge of £60-£65 per year, but no-one knows how long these charges will last. It is also not clear how the most vulnerable customers will be protected if they cannot afford to pay their water bills.

Planning - We believe there is a role for London’s political leaders in the planning decision but it may be problematic for multiple boroughs to undertake separate planning processes. We call on the Government to consider how the Mayor could co-ordinate the planning process for the tunnel proposal.

Employment - Our response says there should be a clear strategy for maximising the employment of Londoners in the construction of the Tunnel. Ambitious targets should be set, which Thames Water’s contractors should have to fulfill.

Watch a video about our response to the consultation: