Councillors in Westminster have called on Crossrail bosses to do more to help local residents and businesses “manage the ongoing disruption” caused by the scheme.
The call for action follows a meeting of the Council’s environment scrutiny committee which heard that disruption caused by the rail scheme had lead to an increase in anti social behaviour and decline in business.
Witnesses complained that incorrect street signage and increased levels of hoarding were having a negative impact on trade.
Residents also complained that “excessive and late night unannounced work” was affecting their standard of living.
Councillor Angela Harvey said her committee was unhappy that a Crossrail representative attending the meeting had been unable to address individual concerns.
Cllr Harvey said: “We wanted to speak to someone who knew what was going on and could help to sort the issues out.
“We know Westminster is a complex place and recognise that this is an amazing project which we fully support, but getting the small things right for people is the easiest thing to do, which is why this is all the more difficult to understand.”
The committee has said it will write to Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan outlining concerns raised at the meeting.
Responding to the criticisms, a spokesperson for Crossrail told MayorWatch: “Crossrail is very sensitive to the concerns of local residents and businesses in the West End and is working closely with the local community to resolve issues and reach fair agreements. It is absolutely critical that the impact of Crossrail’s construction on central London is kept to a minimum.
“We recognise that more needs to be done to assist local traders promote businesses that are situated close to our worksite with new and improved signage and this process is already underway. We are working hard to ensure that any outstanding compensation is paid as soon as possible.
“Crossrail is committed to being a good neighbour, to communicating openly with residents and local business and to addressing concerns in a prompt manner.”