RESIDENTS CLAIM VICTORY AS COUNCIL GOES BACK ON PLAN TO SELL OFF GREEN SPACE

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30 October 2009

John Predergast
johnp@southwarknews.org

EXCLUSIVE
Camberwell residents have claimed victory in saving vital park space on their doorstep, after the council backtracked on plans to sell it alongside council buildings.

The 'News' reported in April this year that the council was hawking around South House on Peckham Road to developers and offering part of the adjacent Lucas Gardens as an inducement to buyers.

A concerted campaign led by Wilson Road Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (TRA) and backed by Cllr Ian Wingfield, who represents the Brunswick Park ward, made it clear they did not want the park to be touched and this week they got their way.

Recent meeting papers from the last council executive meeting make it clear that recommendations to sell the building, alongside three others, will not involve the sale of any part of Lucas Gardens.

The buildings are up for grabs as part of the council's movement of staff to Tooley Street, which has left buildings in the south of the borough vacant and up for sale.

The 'News' understands that the University of Arts, which has buildings further along Peckham Road and at the Elephant, has bought some of the buildings.

Damon De Ionno, chair of the TRA, said: "I'm really proud of the people around here and the spirit we have got. Everybody felt the same way and wanted to stop the sale of the park and I hope we have played a role in ensuring it was not sold.

"I think that we have the university buying the site is good news for Southwark and for Camberwell."
Speaking about all four property sales Cllr Tim McNally, the Executive Member for Resources, said: "The recommendation to sell West House, Central House, East House and South House is part of a bigger picture of greater efficiency and big savings, which sees back office staff move from buildings across the borough into one modern HQ at Tooley St, while we create hubs in the community for the staff that work directly with residents.
"The plan will not only save the council millions but will improve the way we work with residents.

However, we understand the part that the historic buildings play in the community and are retaining the Town Hall itself to be used for democratic functions and conservation specialists will help guide any planning decisions on the other buildings."

Cllr Wingfield who launched a campaign alongside the residents called 'Stop the sell off!' added: "I am pleased that the action taken by these residents has caused the buildings’ sale to be looked at again by the council."

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