Minutes:
Bill Francis, Project Manager for UK Power Networks, gave an update about UK Power Networks’ proposal to run a tunnel through a part of Southwark Park in order to connect a substations in White Chapel to a National Grid site in the south of the borough. The proposed shaft site in Southwark Park, from which the tunnel would be built, was currently being consulted on. This included letters being sent to local residents. The project was currently in the pre-planning application phase, and UK Power Networks would be meeting with the council’s planning control department the following week.
Councillors asked which criteria had been used to determine the route of the tunnel and whether alternative routes/sites had been considered. Residents expressed several concerns about the size of the space needed for building works which was equivalent to 70% of a football pitch, and would threaten a wild flower meadow.
Bill Frances responded that as far as possible the tunnel was following the highway routes, but for geological reasons and because of the need for an appropriate crossing point at the Thames, this was not possible along the entire route.
A representative of Friends of Southwark Park criticised the fact that the group had not been consulted. Bill Francis said that the application was still in the process of being prepared, and that the Friends would be invited to comment as part of the planning application process.
Concerns were expressed about the loss of amenity and about traffic and building work disrupting the park and the surrounding area. Furthermore, residents criticised that UK Power Networks would retain a right of access to the tunnel, therefore inviting future disruption up to four times a year. This plan would set a dangerous precedent of public open land being ceded to a private company.
Responding to a question from the floor, Bill said about 20-30 lorries which would be using a temporary access way near China Hall gate, during the construction of the tunnel. A resident asked about the tunnelling technique which was going to be used, and whether a shaft for access and ventilation was going to remain after the works were completed. Bill Frances responded that a shaft would remain to guarantee access to the 25 metre deep tunnel, and that this kind of arrangement had also been made in a park in Brent.
Councillors asked that UK Power Networks look at alternative sites and share their investigations with residents. Bill said another location would be looked at.