Dear friend,

Liberal Democrats in Southwark have been working hard to ensure that the concerns of local residents, schools and businesses are addressed in the proposals for a new Thames Water tunnel. We have attended many meetings and we have responded twice to the consultation process.

Local Lib Dems have made many attempts to persuade Thames Water that they should find alternative sites. Unfortunately, their latest report still recommends a site in our borough, Chambers Wharf. Although they have said that they will try to reduce the number of lorries, we remain concerned that this is a very densely populated area to have such a major construction site.

We are, therefore, keen to continue to do all that we can to help to support local residents. We are arranging meetings with Thames Water, the Mayor of London, OFWAT (the regulator) and the government minister responsible, Richard Benyon MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Natural Environment and Fisheries. We want to press for alternative routes and drive sites, an independent investigation and to ask more questions about the financial situation of Thames Water.

We realise that residents are very concerned and will continue to work hard to challenge Thames Water about their proposals.

Best wishes,

Cllr Anood Al-Samerai

Group Leader, Southwark Liberal Democrats