Julia Lopez MP has written to the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander MP, to seek clarity on the Department's scrutiny of TfL's plans before consenting to the works alongside any powers it retains to influence the project.

Originally intended to be completed in 10-12 weeks, the project is now in its 22nd week, causing intolerable delays to residents and businesses. 

As the lead funder of the works, the Department for Transport was responsible for approving TfL's Business Case for the project before it could access the funding awarded by the previous Government. 

Given this, Julia has written to the Transport Secretary to ask whether the Department requested and considered information on:

• Ground survey works completed prior to the project's commencement
• The approval of concurrent utility works
• Contingency planning for unforeseen complications

Julia also asked that the Transport Secretary confirm if all the funding for the project had yet been provided to the Greater London Authority and whether the Department retains any formal control mechanisms over TfL.

A full copy of Julia's letter can be viewed below.