tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2129884466436576116.post2907351514936473817..comments2024-02-14T12:43:04.624+00:00Comments on Crosswhatfields?: Thames Tunnel updateSuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07914930883748622529noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2129884466436576116.post-18060168845057081202012-09-24T15:42:28.023+01:002012-09-24T15:42:28.023+01:00The truth of the matter is that TW’s site selectio...The truth of the matter is that TW’s site selection criteria have no bearing on who eventually gets clobbered – although it has to be said that they seem to have a preference for locating sites right next to schools (this and the Bermondsey one and sheltered homes - in Fulham). It’s easy, children and elderly don’t have a voice. It’s the hidden powers exercised within that opaque corporation that make those calls and I’m afraid Mr Raynsford and his construction posse is just more matey with TW than Mrs Ruddock…<br /><br />Speaking of the construction industry, has anyone wondered if they might prefer the Thames Tunnel to Green Infrastructure, as the latter would likely ever so slightly impact their profit margins for new builds; whereas the TT enables the pace of development to continue unchecked, as in the past century, just build more, pipe away the stuff (and precious, clean rainwater) quickly, out of sight out of mind. Oh, and don't forget to charge us to pump and process all that rainwater that was clean when it fell from the sky! Once the TT is overwhelmed as happened in other cities that "enjoy" similar schemes – well, the Thames Tideway Strategic Study already has outline plans for a TT Mk2 (doesn't say who's backyard it will be built in but hopefully there'll still be schools in 15-20 years' time). Some might have hoped that the 21st century homo sapiens had become a little wiser of the impact of its activities on the environment? But of course, we wouldn’t want such considerations to impair anyone’s profit margin, return or bonus (Google "Martin Baggs bonus" if you’re unsure of what I’m referring to).<br /><br />We have tried to obtain crucial figures from TW - and I’m not talking about their glossies replete with pictures of dead fish. Very quickly one hits a resolutely closed door they call "commercial confidentiality" (sic). Those commercial interests clearly matter a lot more than our humble livelihoods.<br /><br />One last warning: "Figure 2B" above will have you believe that works will last four and a half years but has anyone wondered about the "Advance works" before that?? This is another aspect TW have no details forthcoming on. Some sites have enjoyed TW activity since the beginning of this year, perhaps it's to break in gently those residents whose bedroom will be next to 24/7 sites for a few years. If you ask TW, they will say those "advance works" are "not their responsibility". Prepare to hear that tune a lot more often if this scam goes further ahead, when all the work gets subcontracted to the cheapest bidder in order to maximize... you know what.<br /><br />The only way for Deptford to be saved from 5.5 years of misery (extra year for those "advance works"), is to join in in the coalition that pushes for the sensible solution for all Londoners, not just to save someone’s backyard...Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com