Martin Redston has written again to Michael Read of Brent Council regarding the Willesden Town Square application:
Dear Michael,
Dear Michael,
I enclose extracts from the original 1983 document relating to the
WGLC as currently constructed. The main site plan clearly shows a Public Square
at the front of the building. The written description page describes
the public square in some detail. Also an annotated sketch plan of the
site stated: 'The Council intend to preserve the little building on the
corner with its turret and decoration - the wings behind are later
additions, and these will be removed to provide some much-needed open space.'
This document
was produced by Brent's Development Department (the forerunner of the
present "Regeneration and Major Projects") in December 1983.
I
understand that some councillors wanted to save money on the project,
and demolish the whole of the old Willesden Green Library, replacing it
with a public square which would run from the new Library Centre right
down to the High Road. In a Council debate, reported in the "Kilburn
Times" on 20 April 1984, Councillor Len Snow said that this 'would be a
sad mistake', leaving 'a gap here, which will be open to wind and
traffic noise'. He went on to say: 'If the square was protected by an
interesting frontage it would be a haven of peace and on a sunny day a
delight to sit in.'
Brent Council's 1983lLibrary development document clearly shows a public square |
On this basis there is clearly no doubt that the area in front of the library is already a public square, therefore registration should be completed forthwith. The objection by Galliford Try is clearly inaccurate.
Although Brent's objection document,
submitted after the due deadline date but dated 14th August is not valid
as previously noted, I have taken the trouble to read it. There is
nothing in the submission specific to the WGLC Square. Reference has
been made to trading licences and examples have been provided. As noted
in my own response this is entirely irrelevant as trading anywhere in
the borough requires a licence, customers of the licensed traders do not
require a licence to attend the stall or premises. I will provide an
example: At Gladstone Park there are two ice cream vans, one by the gate
on Kendal Road and one within the park by the central playground. In
both cases the traders have obtained licences and permission to trade in
particular positions. However the public do not need a licence to stand
next to the van in the two types of public space to buy their ice
creams.
The late submission by Brent Council
has not been adequately researched and therefore should not be accepted
as part of the process.
I look forward to your positive
response in favour of registration, otherwise I suggest that we move
forward to The Public Enquiry stage at the earliest opportunity.
Regards.
Martin Redston
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