Proposals for Gunnersbury Park’s Private School Denied
"No plans" in the pipeline to sell off the small and large mansions
Plans to sell off Gunnersbury Park’s small and large mansions to create an independent school have been denied even though, according to minutes of a closed meeting of Gunnersbury Park Regeneration Board held in May, the proposal was discussed as one of a number of development plans.
Councillors were informed that in exchange for limited public access, the independent school would look after the fabric of the buildings. Whilst Ealing’s Councillor Dabrowska thought the use for a school was a “fantastic idea” she found herself in the minority with other Councillors wanting to see the buildings open to the public in some form, ideally through a public/private partnership with English Heritage.
Spokesperson for Gunnersbury Park’s Regeneration Board denied that any such plans remained in the pipeline. "We can confirm that contrary to reports in the local press, there are no plans to build an Independent school in Gunnersbury Park.
"We will be inviting consultants to produce a report, which will look at potential uses for all buildings and spaces inside Gunnersbury Park, and whether any of these suggested uses are sustainable for the long term future of the estate - in accordance with the Park's Conservation Management Plan
"The Vision outlined in the Plan is to retain a sustainable high-quality public park with varied uses, which serves the local community and the region whilst respecting, enhancing and interpreting its historic framework and fabric."
August 4, 2008
