Waterloo Road closure: residents left in the dark weeks after gas leak was resolved
Cllr Graham Neale calls on SGN and TfL to explain continuing disruption as bus diversions affect thousands of journeys and residents face extra costs reaching hospital appointments.
Residents and commuters are still facing disruption from the closure of Waterloo Road, weeks after a gas leak prompted the evacuation of around 600 people.
The Southwark News reported on 21 September that an 18-inch gas main had been ruptured, leading to the evacuation of approximately 400 office workers and 200 people from the Old Vic Theatre.
The London Fire Brigade reported that the immediate problem had been resolved at around 8.06pm that evening. However, the affected section of Waterloo Road remained closed to traffic and buses.
Three weeks on, residents are still seeking clear information about the continuing closure, its expected duration and the arrangements being made to minimise its impact.
Numerous bus routes have been diverted, including routes 1, 68, 172, 176, 188, SL6, N1, N68, N171 and BL1 towards Waterloo. Routes 59, 139 and C10 are also affected by diversions, with stops around Waterloo Station, The Old Vic and Lower Marsh among those missed on affected services.
The disruption is particularly serious for people who rely on public transport. Car ownership is especially low in the area, and residents travelling to hospital appointments may have to resort to taxis, adding unexpected costs to essential journeys.
St George’s Ward Councillor, Graham Neale said:
“An emergency gas leak is a serious matter, and public safety must come first. But residents are entitled to ask why Waterloo Road remains closed weeks after the immediate gas leak was reported as resolved.
“People need clear information about what work remains, who is responsible for it and when they can expect their normal bus services to return.
“The impact on public transport users is substantial. Numerous bus routes have been diverted, stops have been missed and people are being forced to change their journeys. For residents who need to get to hospital, that can mean extra expense and unnecessary anxiety.
“In an area where car ownership is particularly low, reliable public transport is essential. Residents should not be left in the dark while SGN and TfL leave them to work out alternative arrangements for themselves.
“I am calling on SGN and TfL to provide an immediate public update, explain the reasons for the continuing closure, publish a realistic timetable for reopening Waterloo Road and ensure passengers are kept informed throughout the remaining works.”