Pickles is slammed over super-sewer intervention

Eric Pickles, the Communities Secretary, has sparked a row after stepping in to stop development on a site earmarked for London’s “super-sewer”.

Hammersmith and Fulham chiefs are furious after receiving a letter blocking them from granting planning permission for any rival projects without “specific authorisation”.

The council, once described by Mr Pickles as “the apple of my eye”, fears it is evidence of top-level backing

for the Carnwath Road plot in Fulham to be used as the main construction site for the £4.1 billion Thames Tunnel.

Council deputy leader Nick Botterill said it was “highly likely” a legal challenge could be launched. “This is heavy handed, especially when ministers have said that they would not get involved in site selection issues,” he added.