Sir
 
The Environment Agency claims that the money gained from the sale of the surplus (allegedly) lock houses will be used for environmental projects that will improve facilities for river users.
 
Rubbish.
 
The EA cannot categorically state that all the money raised will be used for the Thames.  Realistically, a large percentage will disappear into DEFRA funds to make up the shortfalls caused by their poor financial management
 
Once the houses have gone, so will the lock keepers with experience and understanding of the river Thames disappear.  The riverside residents will be left at the mercy of inadequately trained gate openers who will never be on site when needed in an emergency.
 
We are VERY concerned that disposal of Bell Weir and Penton Hook ( right next to the lock but not lock side) and Chertsey will leave a very vulnerable section of the river totally unprotected, well over 12 miles of waterway
 
Our residents association is joining the fight.  We all suffered in 2003 from the mismanagement of the Jubilee River.  This wonderful plan is the latest example of mismanagement in our opinion.
 
Yours faithfully
 
David and Naomi Bradbury
Staines