Lib Dems Continue the Fight Against High Rise in Downtown (Southwark Liberal Democrats)

Southwark Liberal Democrats <info@southwark-libdems.org.uk>

Lib Dems Continue the Fight Against High Rise in Downtown

September 19, 2006 5:59 PM

Surrey Docks Cllrs David Hubber and Lisa Rajan - Standing Up for Local Residents

Liberal Democrats have thrown their weight behind Downtown residents, and announced the Council will challenge the Labour Secretary of State's decision to force an inappropriate housing development on the Downtown area.

The development, which was rejected by local residents, the Council and The Independent Planning Inspector, could see the Russia Dock Woodland dominated by large blocks of flats and the character of the area spoilt by Barrett's High Rise plans.

In a Council Executive meeting on Monday the decision was made to challenge the development by judicial review.

Surrey Docks Councillor and Executive Member for Environment, Lisa Rajan said "The Secretary of State left us with little choice. We have supported local residents and the Downtown Defence Group's campaign against this development for years - we are not about to give up on them. We are now challenging the Minister's decision in court and hope she will finally take notice of local people's concerns."

The Lib Dems have also collected signatures from many of the downtown residents in a petition opposing the development. Lib Dem MP, Simon Hughes, will be presenting these to Ruth Kelly. He added "I would like to thank everyone who has supported our campaign."

Simon continued: "I understand that local residents' quality of life could seriously be affected by this development. I have already written to the Labour Minister requesting that she reconsider her decision and actually come and visit the area to see what effect these plans will have."

"I will continue to put pressure on her and would encourage anyone who wants to help with this campaign to get in touch with the Surrey Docks Liberal Democrat Team and the Downtown Defence group."

It's not too late to offer your support - and sign the online petition using the link below.