Super sewer questions
by Hammersmith and Fulham Press Office
28/07/2008
Questions and answers on plans for a London super sewer:
What is the ‘super sewer’?
The super sewer would work more like a storage tank than a sewer, collecting combined rainwater and raw sewage that currently overflows into the Thames during heavy rain. Thames Water says that some sewage can seep into the Thames 60 times a year. However, environmentalists say that pollution is decreasing and that the river has never been so clean.
Where would it run from and to?
Currently Thames Water say the sewer would run from the borough boundary between Hammersmith and Hounslow in the west to Beckton in the east. The diameter of the tunnel would be marginally bigger than the Channel Tunnel
Why does the start or end point have to be located in or around H&F?
Thames Water say that the tunnel has to run along the Thames to capture the existing combined sewer outfalls in the area. However, it has since clarified that the area does not necessarily conform to the borough boundary - it actually starts in Chiswick. Thames Water say that they need an area close to the river with good access points to roads. Furnivall Gardens is likely to an option – although there are question marks over whether this is big enough. The only other major open space close to the Thames in the area designated is Ravenscourt Park and Frank Banfield Park.
How much construction work would there be? What would this mean?
To construct a hole 30 metres – or almost 100 feet - in diameter – roughly the size of Boeing 737 – it is estimated you would need a space the size of three or four football pitches. At least one million tonnes of dirt would need to be excavated and transported by river with construction traffic coming in by road.
What happens next?
A decision on a location is likely to be taken next year with a planning application either late 2010 or early 2011 with works starting in 2012. As it stands, the project would be completed in 2020.
How can I object or get involved?
H&F Council will be launching a major campaign against the proposals and is calling on local groups and other councils to unite. The Council hopes to organise a public meeting in September or October and will be announcing details soon of how you can get involved in the campaign. We will be regularly updating you on what is happening through our website and H&F News.
