Hounslow urged to produce plans for preservation and development of the park
In a letter to Hounslow's Chief Executive Mark Gilks, Ann Keen MP asked for the council to produce plans for Gunnersbury that would reassure residents about the future of the park.
Raising 'serious' concerns on behalf of constituents regarding the lack of progress with the development of Gunnersbury Park, Ann Keen wrote, "As you know, Hounslow Council’s proposal to sell off parcels of the park for residential development was unanimously regretted by local residents and park users and has caused unnecessary upset and anxiety. My office is still receiving many calls and letters of concern regarding the long term future of the park.
"The overwhelming consensus from local residents has been that the sale and destruction of park land, albeit to fund park regeneration, is simply unacceptable. Although securing necessary funding for Gunnersbury Park may pose a challenge to the Council, I reject the claim that the answer lies in the development of the park for housing which in turn would lead to the destruction of many trees.
"As one of London’s most prestigious parks, the Council should be making every effort to improve the park for the benefit of all and not for developers. Gunnersbury is without doubt a valuable asset to our borough. It is essential that the Council does everything in its power to preserve the park and to work with partners, the community and local residents to preserve the Park and develop plans that we can all be proud of.
"I note that Ealing Council’s recent commitment to Gunnersbury through their opposition to selling park land. Furthermore, Ealing Council’s pledge to provide £5 million for the park is a significant step towards ensuring its preservation.
"Despite this Hounslow Council’s plan for Gunnersbury Park remains unclear. I continue to meet residents in my weekly surgeries who share my concern regarding the Council’s position and its future plans for the park.
"I therefore strongly urge you to produce plans for the park so I can reassure my constituents, as you will be aware I wholeheartedly support the redevelopment of the park and will continue to work with and support my constituents in their fight for the preservation and development of the park.
"I look forward to receiving your reply to my letter and your Councils proposals."
February 16, 2010
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