By e-mail
25thNovember 2011
Without Prejudice
Dear Mr XXXXX
Re: Greenland Pier
Thank you for attending our recent meeting on the 10th October 2011. I am writing to confirm the Council’s position in relation to the Pier.
1.Timing of works
1.1As you know, the Council originally proposed to remove the pier in November a principal inspection. It was your view that it would be better to remove it in January – February as passenger numbers would be lower at that time. We are happy to change the time of inspection to February 20121. We do not yet know the full extent of the works that will be required and if the work required is expensive, we will need to get formal approval for additional spend, which may be challenging.
1.2In order to formalise this, Southwark will shortly be serving notice on Thames Clippers regarding removal of pier as stated at the meeting.
2.Interim Arrangements
2.1During the period of removal you confirmed that Thames Clippers are looking to introduce a second boat to run from the Hilton Pier to CanaryWharf to help inconvenienced passengers.
2.2You also suggested that Southwark provide a bus service to transport passengers from Greenland Pier to the Hilton Pier. We have considered this proposal but we do not believe this is a Council role to provide such a service.
2.3You also made a suggestion of a temporary pontoon while Greeland pier is removed. You advised that you could source a temporary substitute but this would need to be mainly funded by Southwark. Unfortunately, we do not have funding to provide a temporary pontoon while Greenland pier is in dry dock.
3.Scope of works
3.1You have asked to see the specification of works as you feel costs could escalate if the specification is not precise. The works required have already been detailed in the survey reports previously sent to you which is re-attached. If there any new works required we will inform you as soon as we know.
4.Future of the Pier
4.1The Council has commissioned a valuation of the Pier. Our valuation is £75,000 for the structure. The right to connect it to the bank would incur an additional fee. Under such a future commercial arrangement all outgoings for repairs would become the responsibility of the new owner along with the cost of any Pier licence and negotiations for a new licence. We are happy to consider such an arrangement with yourselves or others. Please let us know.
Yours sincerely
Nicky Costin
Road Network, Parking and Marina
Business Manager
Environment Department, 160 Tooley Street, PO Box 64529, LondonSE1P 5LX
Switchboard - 020 7525 5000 Website –
Strategic Director- Gill Davies