Publication from Caroline Russell: Vittoria Wharf and Fish Island bridges

Dear Peter

We are writing further to the London Assembly’s Confirmation Hearing on Monday 17th July 2017, when Assembly Members had the opportunity to ask you questions and accepted the Mayor’s recommendation for your appointment as Chair of the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC).

The new Mayor’s draft Transport Strategy was discussed along with the issue of compatibility of the proposed Fish Island bridges, H14 and H16 with the strategy, particularly the Mayor’s ambition to reduce traffic and promote a Healthy Streets agenda.

A number of concerns were also raised about the particular importance of public engagement and the need for the community to be at the heart of the process, with a role for the Chair in ensuring the success of this.

The Mayor of Tower Hamlets, John Biggs, yesterday has repeated his concerns about the bridges in a letter to Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor, Planning, Regeneration and Skills. He wrote “I am fundamentally concerned at the apparent lack of consideration that the LLDC has given to genuine local representations against the wisdom of this bridge and the need for additional crossings”. He added “I still believe that the LLDC can review this decision [on H14 and H16] and pause construction…”

Given your welcome statement at the Confirmation Hearing that you will ensure that the LLDC looks at how its plans are consistent with the Mayor’s Transport Strategy, we echo John Biggs’ request for a review of bridges H14 and H16. There is every reason for a review of the bridges in this light together with the need to meet air pollution legal limits in the shortest time possible and the need to re-engage with the community’s local representatives.

The demolition of Vittoria Wharf, an Asset of Community Value and a cultural asset, is contrary to the Mayor's aim of protecting low cost workspace. The LLDC's own comment on the value of Stour Space Vittoria Wharf included: ‘an essential hub in the area which truly meets the needs of the diverse range of local communities and visitors’.

We also echo the need for an immediate halt to demolition of Vittoria Wharf while this review takes place.

As part of this review, please will you make public the supporting documentation and rationale for the requirement for H14 and H16 bridges for the Sweetwater development. If it is a contractual arrangement, this should be made clear.

We look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely

Caroline Russell AM, Green Party Member, London Assembly

Navin Shah AM, Labour Party Member, London Assembly

Nicky Gavron AM, Labour Party Member, London Assembly

Andrew Boff AM, Conservative Party Member, London Assembly