As construction of the Lee Tunnel progressed it was recognised that there was the potential for an interface between the Lee Tunnel entry point at Abbey Mills Pumping Station in Stratford and a possible Thames Tideway Tunnel terminus at the same site as part of conveying all captured storm flows for treatment to Beckton STW. Recognising that any such interface could not be direct and would require an intermediary shaft and connection tunnel, proposals were developed for the provision of this interface should Abbey Mills become the connection point for the two tunnels. Adams Hendry led the preparation of the planning application and drawings and coordinated and peer reviewed the accompanying environment report that was submitted for approval by the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation.
Mirroring the depth of the adjacent Lee Tunnel ‘Shaft F’ at more than 80m BGL and in excess of 20m in diameter, Shaft G was granted planning permission in 2012, and constructed between 2012 and 2013 to enable it to tie in with Lee Tunnel construction works, including via the 7.2m diameter80m BGL connection tunnel between the two shafts.
Left in situ post construction, it was subsequently confirmed that the TTT terminus would be Abbey Mills Pumping Station, and this essential piece of wastewater infrastructure now stands ready to receive the TTT tunnel boring machine making its way to Abbey Mills. With the TBM now nearing the site, works are underway to receive the TBM and complete the connection between these two iconic stormwater capture and transfer tunnels.
