Freedom of Information request - Rotherhithe Tunnel repair plan
Request ID: FOI-2102-2122 Date published: 07 January 2022
You asked
Please can you share TfL's plan for the necessary repairs to the Rotherhithe Tunnel, as mentioned by managing director for surface transport Gareth Powell to the London Assembly transport committee on July 19 this year?
Please include the estimated cost and the length of time that repairs would take.
We answered
Our ref: FOI-2102-2122/GH
Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 11 December 2021 asking for information about Rotherhithe Tunnel.
Your request has been considered under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and our information access policy. I can confirm that we do hold the information you require.
Much of the operational equipment within the Rotherhithe Tunnel is in poor condition and/or obsolete and unable to perform reliably or to the level required. A Concept Design for the refurbishment has been completed, the scope of which includes:
Tunnel ventilation systems
Fire safety systems
Lighting, signing, power, communications,
Carriageway, pumps, drainage and finishes.
Undertaking the required works presents significant challenges, as the flow of traffic is bi-directional within a single bore, together with usage by cyclists and pedestrians. These factors, coupled with the construction and geometry of the tunnel, mean the method of refurbishment has a significant impact on the cost and duration of the works. For example, the quickest and cheapest method of refurbishment would be through a single block closure, which could be completed in less than a year and would cost in the order of £120m (current prices). However, if the work was undertaken during weekend and night-time closures, the refurbishment could take several years to complete and is likely to be substantially more expensive.
A detailed programme and cost estimate for the works will be produced during the detailed design stage. However, due to TfL’s current financial position, we are unable at this time to progress the procurement for the detailed design and build stages of the project.
If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for some reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.
If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Graham Hurt FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
