Forum Topic

Isn't Not So Secret Cinema something to be welcomed?

I can understand the people around Gunnersbury Park not being that keen about being the guinea pigs for one of the first mass attendance events when lockdown is over but more broadly speaking isn't this something we should be welcoming?It'll be great to see crowds of people out enjoying themselves and Gunnersbury is clearly desperate for cash even before the cafe burnt down. Ultimately the taxpayer probably has to cover any shortfalls.The idea that the event will be socially distanced is probably too optimistic but hopefully by the time it takes place the risk of infection will be very low.I do accept the point made by residents about consultation. Secret Cinema by definition do have a culture of secrecy which is forgivable for them but it isn't a good trait in a local authority. They should recognise that it is important given the significance of this event that local residents should be kept as well informed as possible. Sticking an ad in a paper that nobody can get doesn't suggest a desire to ensure that the community is aware of what is going on.

Gordon Southwell ● 1783d4 Comments

Although I agree that it isn't great news for any of us that such a big hole is being created in the Gunnersbury Park balance sheet due to the cancellation of the Secret Cinema event in retrospect this particular event was probably misconceived. Don't really understand why they didn't go for a drive-in.

Gordon Southwell ● 1764d

Re anti-social behaviour, I live right by the park and have never even been aware when these gatherings have been taking place. People attending mostly walk from Acton Town station, along Gunnersbury Lane and into the park.One thing we do know about the virus is that it doesn't spread well in the open air.People seem to have lost all sense of proportion.

Susan Kelly ● 1782d

Apart from the traffic, possible anti-social behaviour and lack of access to the parts of the park?I don't use the park at the moment because it is too far away for me to get there other than driving but I probably would pause before using it after one of these events. We don't fully understand how the virus spreads and it isn't clear if you could catch it by being somewhere which had recently been occupied by a large group of people. For instance how long would the virus linger on surfaces in the park.

Andy Jones ● 1782d

I don't see why it should bother the local residents unless we choose to attend.

Susan Kelly ● 1782d