Further to my post yesterday about the growing appearance of reluctance on Mayor Johnson's part to use his planning powers to halt boroughs' redeveloping markets and green spaces, I've been provided with his latest statement on Haringey's plans for Ward's Corner in Seven Sisters.
This contains the Pueblito Paisa market, to which he was an enthusiastic visitor during his election campaign - see the video clip on the website of the coalition opposed to Haringey's plans. In the summer, Boris urged the Council to reconsider these. It has now done so to his satisfaction. A spokesperson for the mayor said:
Boris Johnson has always been a strong supporter of the Puebilto Paisa market and has worked hard to safeguard its future. Following his intervention in the planned redevelopment of Wards Corner in July, Haringey Council put in place some sensible solutions that will not only enhance the market and give it a long-term future but also rejuvenate and improve a neglected corner of London.
Despite the very strong desire to retain the existing building expressed by many in the local community, which the Mayor considered carefully, he found no strong strategic planning grounds to justify his directing refusal of the new planning application put forward by Haringey Council and the decision as to whether or not to continue with the development now lies firmly in the hands of local people and their council.
Not sure if the campaigners think Haringey's solutions "sensible". They held a meeting yesterday evening. I'm trying to find out what happened and will report back as and when.
