TfL Ref: FOI-0440-2425

Thank you for your request which we received on 7 May 2024. You asked for information submitted to the Executive Committee meeting, relating to a future Bakerloo line upgrade. 

Your request is being considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you require.

Please find attached a redacted copy of the Bakerloo line upgrade slides which were presented to the Executive Committee meeting on 22 March 2024.

In accordance with the FOI Act, we are not obliged to supply some information contained in the document, because it’s subject to a statutory exemption to the right of access to information under section 43(2) commercial interests. In this instance the exemption has been applied as disclosure of the redacted information is likely to prejudice the commercial interests of TfL. This includes commercial / contractual references, break down of cost and summary of the different options, and the potential impact on our customers and staff, all of which will be important elements of future negotiations with our supply chain and trade unions. While the document retains an internal use for future consideration, there is a significant risk that disclosure of the detailed information on options for the delivery of the upgrade, would lead to our commercial interests being harmed in the future.

Disclosure of the information you are seeking would be likely to prejudice our position by providing an insight into the considerations being assessed before we enter any formal consultation process. We consider that this would inhibit our ability to obtain best value for public funds by weakening our ability to negotiate from the best possible position.

The use of this exemption is subject to an assessment of the public interest in relation to the disclosure of the information concerned. We recognise the need for openness and transparency by public authorities, but in this instance we feel the balance of public interest lies in favour of withholding the information to ensure that we are able to negotiate effectively without being hindered by the release of information about options under consideration and which may or may not be adopted. This ensures that we remain able to provide the best value for public funds.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed. 

Yours sincerely 

Eva Hextall 

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London