Our Ref: FOI-2171-1617

Thank you for your e-mail received on 2 March 2017 asking for any drawings, maps or plans in relation to British Telecom’s (BT) deep level cable tunnel system at Bank, Charing Cross and Borough London Underground stations.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.

The information requested is subject to a statutory exemption to the right of access to information, under Section 38(1)(b) of the Act. In this instance the exemption has been applied as disclosure of the information requested would be likely to adversely affect the safety and security of our employees as well as members of the general public.

Whilst we make no suggestion that you would use this information for anything other than your own personal interests, disclosure of this information to you has to be regarded as a disclosure to ‘the public at large’. This information could potentially be obtained and utilised by individuals who may wish to use this detailed level technical information to cause disruption or harm to British Telecomm’s and London Underground networks. Additionally disclosure of information which could compromise security and safety preparedness on both BT’s and London Underground’s infrastructure, would place members of the public and staff at risk by highlighting areas on these networks that could be susceptible to being targeted.
The use of this exemption is subject to an assessment of the public interest in relation to the disclosure of the information concerned. TfL recognises the need for openness and transparency by public authorities, but in this instance the public interest in applying the exemption, in order to minimise risks to operational resilience, safe operation of the London Underground network, the welfare of staff and members of the general public, outweighs the public interest in disclosure.

However, if you wish to approach BT for this information, they can be contacted via their website below but please note that private companies are not legally obliged to respond under FOI legislation:
http://www.btplc.com/thegroup/contactbt/index.htm

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

 

Jasmine Howard
FOI Case Officer
FOI Case management Team
General Counsel
Transport for London