| |
A ‘development’ is taking place on our open space
• FOR some years now I have campaigned for the open space on the junction of Hampstead Road and Robert Street to be put to proper use for the residents of Rydal Water and the adjoining blocks.
Over the years Camden has consistently neglected this valuable resource first by the removal of the seating area and then allowing it to be used as a toilet bowl for the dog population of the ward.
I have pleaded with our local councillors to get permission for our local award-winning gardening club be allowed to maintain this open space all to no avail. Now I find that despite a petition from the residents to the council to halt the relocation of the one-stop shop from Hampstead Road to our space, the project will go ahead. Indeed members from all parties have agreed that this is the most suitable site; so much for community consultation,
There are, however, some problems with this project, the funding from which I understand is being made available from the West Euston Partnership which was set up to regenerate the ward.
So much for the single regeneration budget’s ethos, local jobs for local people.
This is not a four-year, temporary, accommodation as portrayed by the one-stop shop management team. Trenches are being dug, the roots of trees are being cut, drains and pipes are being laid.
In short, a development is taking place, judging by the amount of concrete being poured and as an old age pensioner I fear that I shall never see this valuable asset restored to the purpose it was meant for.
I shudder to think about the cost of this development. I am sure office space could have been made available elsewhere. The obvious site is the National Temperance Hospital, whose underdevelopment is a scandal.
DANNY GALLIVAN
Rydal Water, NW1
|
 |
|
| |
