TfL Ref: FOI-2228-1617

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 13 February asking for information about a briefing note.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you require.

However, in the circumstances prevailing at the time your request was received and in accordance with Regulation 12(5)(e) we are not obliged to provide the information you have requested as provision of this information is likely to have a negative impact on the commercial interests of the Garden Bridge Trust (GBT). The document describes part of an ongoing commercial negotiation between the parties which has not yet been concluded and provision of the document at this stage is likely to hinder these ongoing negotiations by placing the GBT at a commercial disadvantage.

There is a strong public interest in the release of information that would inform and engage public debate on issues pertinent to the Garden Bridge. The release of the information covered by this exception would also therefore help reassure the public that we are considering the most appropriate options and advice regarding the project . However, at this point in time, we feel that the balance of public interest lies in favour of withholding the information you have requested to ensure that the GBT are able to continue to negotiate competitively during this ongoing process.

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.

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

Yours sincerely

Lee Hill

Senior FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London