West End Extra - LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Published: 25 September 2009
Looking after Soho Square
FURTHER to your article (Square ‘dust bowl’ closure call, September 18) I would like to reassure your readers that we do not close Soho Square for “corporate parties” but rather hold public events in the park that will benefit or interest local residents, businesses and visitors.
Soho is home to around 4,000 residents and to the thriving creative and entertainment sectors, and Soho Square is one of Westminster’s busiest gardens and a haven for local people and visitors amid the hustle and bustle of the West End.
Any suggestion, therefore, that “the garden should be locked and so not be damaged further” would stop the space being used by the community.
The square has recently undergone a revamp, including the restoration of the historic lodge, and we acknowledge that carrying out this essential work has resulted in the grass not looking its best.
As a result, we will be returfing the whole square in October when the weather is more suitable and disruption to users of the park will be minimal.
Westminster City Council’s parks department has the best interests of Soho Square and its visitors at heart and maintaining the city’s green spaces is of the utmost importance to us.
Indeed, our parks were recently awarded a record 18 Green Flags, more than any other London borough, despite being one of the busiest and most densely populated areas in the UK. cllr Lee Rowley
Cabinet Member for
Customer Services and Communities
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