Letter: What is Thames Water’s Plan for Its Pewley Pipeline?

Published on: 17 Oct, 2024
Updated on: 18 Oct, 2024

The plastic fences on Pewley Down as they looked when first erected

From Jack Bayliss

It would be good if the council or Thames Water (often much maligned) told us what exactly is going to happen on Pewley Down and when.

I understand that the route of the new main pipeline from the Pewley Hill reservoir to Gomshall must almost inevitably go through the downs and I understand and completely accept the need for such new infrastructure.

However Pewley Down is a beautiful and much loved and used piece of downland which belongs to the people of Guildford, having been given to them by the Friary Brewery in thanksgiving for the end of the First World War. It is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

See: The Story Of Pewley Down Gifted To Guildford 100 Years Ago

Over a year ago unsightly green plastic fences were erected there, apparently to protect reptiles before the installation of the pipeline. They are now mostly in tatters and almost certainly were a waste of our money, whether as ratepayers or customers of Thames Water. Already part of the Pewley Down at the east end is being fenced off.

It would be, to say the least, good public relations and cost very little for there to be some clear notices at the main entrances to Pewley Down explaining what is going to happen, where and when.

Editor’s response: A spokesperson for Thames Water said that company representatives will be visiting the site next week and intend to issue a press release following their visit.