Sir, Thames Water claims that is consulting the public over the proposed reservoir. Yet it will only allow feedback from individuals using the feedback form at its exhibitions. This form is very narrow in its scope and redolent with positive messages about the reservoir. Also not everyone can attend the exhibition. It is apparently possible to obtain a feedback form by phone, but the staff on the advertised helpline know nothing about the project and, when persuaded it exists, need up to ten working days to deliver.
If Thames Water was serious about consultation, the feedback form would be available online, and its helpline staff would be properly briefed. More importantly, it would allow those concerned about the reservoir, and indeed those in favour, to express their views in free-flowing written form, often known as a letter. Thames Water is engaged in a £1bn project but its consultation is distinctly cheapskate.
Andy Boddington, Campaign Manager, CPRE Oxfordshire
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