Council Heritage Quarter 'Fun' Day This Bank Holiday

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And yes, that is where Hanwell's lampposts are going

Ealing Council has just sent out a press release inviting residents to have their say on a multi-million pound investment to improve Ealing’s Heritage Quarter.

 

The Walpole Park event is being billed as a fun day but the Hanwell heritage lamppost debate threatens to hang like a dark cloud over the bank holiday weekend festivities.

The Heritage Quarter investment includes £2.8million for improvements to Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery, and £300,000 for Walpole and Lammas parks.

To launch the first part of the consultation process, a 'fun day' is being held in Walpole Park and PM Gallery & House on Saturday, 3 May from 10am-4pm.

 

Organisers say the day will include free art activities for young people, heritage tours of the park, and the chance to discuss the parks, house and gallery. "Visitors will be able to enjoy free refreshments and share their views by completing the consultation questionnaire."

But in light of recent lamppost-led debate between councillors and residents, can the fun day really go ahead?

A public meeting this week sparked accusations that Leader of the Council Jason Stacey has told lies on the issue, making it clear that this isn't something that is just going to go away. And the timing of this 'fun' day might be seen by Hanwell protesters as at best inappropriate; at worst insulting.

Keith Townsend, Executive Director of Environment & Customer Services, said of the event: “Ealing has a rich heritage, which is one reason why the borough is such a special place. It is important for people to have their say on the improvements we plan to make, and this event presents the perfect opportunity.”

Hanwell resident Carolyn Brown gave ealingtoday a taste of current feeling on the subject from where she lives:

"Residents are frustrated that the Council has not consulted them individually in the first place, and that the limited consultation via small conservation panels were never given the option of retaining refurbished antique lampposts," she said.

"They are frustrated that the Council is not listening now, and might be said to be becoming even more entrenched in their determination to take this heritage away from Hanwell. And give it to Ealing. What recourse do they have in such circumstances but to come out en masse."

So a good opportunity this fun day may be, but will the council regret their hospitality?

 

Charlie Canniff

April 25, 2008