Thames Water refuses entry to press at meeting over Mogden sewage works expansion

Thames Water director Richard Ayland, who refused our reporter entry to the meeting, said it was a chance for the utilities giant to listen to concerns and explain itself for a “difficult” couple of months.

But Councillor Jon Hardy said the meeting did little to dispel the idea the company was more interested in its shareholders than neighbours of the sewage works – a claim Mr Ayland denied.

Coun Hardy said: “It was a useful meeting because we saw the sort of organisation we are dealing with. The problems at the plant have been caused by a perennial under investment in the machinery and a lack of communication with the public.

“Thames Water’s interaction with community when we had more flies in the area and saw the storm tanks weren’t covered was terrible – they sat on it and the council had to really push to get this information out of them.

“If Thames Water really wanted to get its message out there why not let the press in, as it is the only independent body able to hold it to account. They seem to be more about spin than engagement with community and work to solve problems rather than prevent them.”

Mr Ayland said he refused press entry as some residents’ groups would not have liked discussing their issues publicly.

He also announced Thames Water will send a community newsletter to neighbours as soon as planning permission for the extension was finalised. He added that weekly checks by officials made sure Hounslow Council was kept up-to-date with every incident at Mogden.

He said: “We are happy to meet with any groups or residents who have any problems or issues. I would not want people to think this [the meetings] are the only way we talk to the public. There was a great discussion and we took away a lot of concerns.”

Last week, Twickenham MP Vince Cable joined forces with Hounslow councillors in asking for tighter timetables to cover storm tanks where sewage water is held until it is treated.

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