Cost of Pheonix Palm Relocation During Lambeth Bridge Works
Request ID: FOI-3110-2324 Date published: 28 December 2023
You asked
Freedom of Information Request: Cost of Pheonix Palm Relocation During Lambeth Bridge Works
Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, I would like to request the following information:
1. The total cost paid by Transport for London (TfL) to specialist contractors to relocate the Grade II listed Phoenix Palm in Churchill Gardens, Pimlico during the enhancement works on Lambeth Bridge.
Please provide a breakdown of what costs this total figure includes, such as:
• Contractor fees for removing, transporting and storing the Phoenix Palm
• Costs for temporary storage facilities
• Costs for re-planting the Phoenix Palm after works were completed
• Any other associated costs related to the relocation project
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-3110-2324 Thank you for your request received on 30 November 2023 asking for information about the relocation of the Phoenix Palm in Churchill Gardens during the Lambeth Bridge works. Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) and our information access policy. Delivery of this scheme is a very high priority for road safety and security reasons. TfL data shows that Lambeth Bridge's northern junction is the most dangerous junction in London for cycle collisions. The project will deliver highway safety improvements through removal of the roundabouts at either end of Lambeth Bridge and their replacement with signalised junctions which include high-quality dedicated cycle facilities. This will separate cyclists in time and/or space from vehicular traffic where feasible, improve safety and help to unlock cycle connectivity in the area. The scheme also involves the provision of Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) on Lambeth Bridge and essential structural maintenance and renewal work to increase the longevity of this strategically important river crossing. We understand the palm tree is a much loved asset of the area. However unfortunately it is necessary to relocate the palm tree from the centre of Lambeth Bridge northern roundabout to enable us to deliver the safety works. The new location of Churchill Gardens was identified post public consultation between TfL and Westminster City Council arboriculturists as a suitable relocation site within Westminster City Council. We have employed a specialist contractor to help us relocate the tree and to help maintain the tree going forward. We are doing this work during the planting season to increase the likelihood of successful replanting. Works have not yet been completed in relation to the tree relocation. We will not know the final costs until all work associated with the tree relocation is completed and the final invoice has been received and accepted. Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
