Decision on Shepherd's Bush Green Declared a Victory

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Inspectorate says yes to more trees, no to cafe and mound of earth

A Planning Inspectorate decision on plans to redevelop Shepherd's Bush Green has been declared a victory by local MP Andy Slaughter.

The Inspectorate gave the go ahead to Hammersmith and Fulham Council's plans for more trees to be planted, two new play areas to be created and cycle and pedestrian routes across the Green to be improved.

However, while aproving the plans, Planning Inspector Barney Grimshaw told the council that they would not be able to go ahead with building a café on the Green or construct a mound of earth in the south west corner.

Andy Slaughter says: "  Local residents, heritage goups and tenants associations found themselves pitted against the Council and its expensively-hired QC at the enquiry.

" Nevertheless, the outcome was unequivocal: yes to trees and no to unwanted building – a victory for the big society over big government, I think.  Perhaps they can use the half-a-million pounds they were going to waste on the cafe to install proper toilets in the area now. "

H & F Council says the verdict brings to an end several years of delays.

As the Green is Common land, in order to progress with the project, the council required the consent of the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). DEFRA called for the public hearing after what the council describes as "a small number of people" complained about the original scheme.

Cllr Greg Smith, cabinet member for resident's services, said: "I am delighted that we can finally move ahead with this scheme which will undoubtedly benefit everyone who lives near, visits or works in and around Shepherds Bush, as well as rejuvenating a green space that needs a boost."

The decision on the Green's future is also the subject of discussion on our forum.

June 20, 2011